Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, has reassigned two money laundering cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Abubakar Malami, former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, to a new judge.
The cases are now assigned to Joyce Abdulmalik, who has fixed February 27 for proceedings. The reassignment follows the withdrawal of Obiora Egwuatu, who recused himself on February 12, citing personal reasons and the interest of justice.
The EFCC is prosecuting Malami on a 16-count charge of money laundering. In December 2025, the agency said it had traced assets worth N212 billion to the former AGF.
These assets reportedly include hotels, residential buildings, schools, land, and a printing press, located in Kebbi, Kano, and the Federal Capital Territory.
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Malami was arraigned alongside his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and his wife, Bashir Asabe, over allegations of laundering N8,713,923,759.49. All defendants pleaded not guilty.
In a separate suit, the EFCC is seeking the forfeiture of 57 properties suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.
The cases were initially handled by Emeka Nwite during the court’s vacation period. After the vacation, Tsoho reassigned the matters to Egwuatu, who later withdrew and returned the files to the Chief Judge.
Meanwhile, Malami and his son are also facing trial before Judge Abdulmalik on a five-count charge relating to terrorism financing and illegal possession of firearms.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
