Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a stern warning to lawyers and litigants involved in the trial of former Attorney General, Abubakar Malami, SAN.
During a court session on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the judge cautioned that his court would resist any attempt to influence the legal process through back-channel favors, emphasizing that “the law cannot be bent” and that any attempt to tarnish his reputation would be met with severe consequences.
Okay News reports that the warning came as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proceeds with the prosecution of Malami, alongside his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe, and son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami. The trio faces a 16-count charge involving alleged money laundering to the tune of over ₦8.7 billion. The charges include conspiracy and the concealment of funds through various bank accounts and business entities between 2022 and 2025.
The court has granted bail to Malami and his family members in the sum of ₦500 million each, requiring two sureties for each defendant. While the judge acknowledged his familiarity with many legal professionals, he reiterated that personal relationships would not influence his rulings.
The matter has been adjourned for further proceedings as the EFCC continues its efforts to prosecute the former Minister of Justice for alleged financial crimes.
