By Our correspondent
Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court has withdrawn from presiding over two cases instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
The judge announced his decision on Thursday during court proceedings when one of the matters a civil suit seeking the final forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to Mr Malami was called up for mention.
Justice Egwuatu said he was stepping aside for personal reasons and in the interest of justice. He did not provide further details regarding the grounds for his decision.
The cases were recently reassigned to him by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho. They had earlier been handled by Justice Emeka Nwite during the court’s Christmas vacation.
With the recusal, the matters are expected to be reassigned to another judge for continuation of proceedings. The EFCC is seeking the permanent forfeiture of the properties as part of its ongoing legal actions involving the former chief law officer of the federation.
