Don’t Approach me, Interfere with Process over Malami’s Bail, Warns Justice Emeka Nwite
‘Don’t Approach me, Interfere with Process over Malami’s Bail, Warns Justice Emeka Nwite
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued several significant rulings regarding the corruption trial of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and his family members.
On Wednesday, January 7, 2026, Justice Nwite granted bail to Abubakar Malami, his wife Asabe Bashir, and his son Abdulaziz Malami in the sum of ₦500 million each, totaling ₦1.5 billion.
As part of the bail conditions, each defendant must provide two sureties who own landed properties in high-value areas of Abuja, specifically Maitama, Asokoro, or Gwarimpa.
The judge also ordered the defendants to surrender their international passports and prohibited them from traveling abroad without the court’s express permission. Until these conditions are met, Malami is to remain in custody at the Kuje Correctional Centre.
In a separate but related ruling on January 6, 2026, the judge ordered the interim forfeiture of 57 properties linked to Malami and his sons.
These assets, valued at approximately ₦213.2 billion, are located across Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and Kaduna and include luxury hotels, private schools, factories, and filling stations. Justice Nwite gave interested parties 14 days to show cause why the properties should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.
Beyond the specific rulings, Justice Nwite made headlines for a stern warning to all parties involved in the case.
He declared himself “unapproachable,” cautioning lawyers and litigants against any attempt to influence his judgment or seek personal favors. He emphasized his vow to uphold the law without fear or favor, stating that “the law cannot be bent” and that any attempt to pervert justice would be “vehemently resisted.”
The substantive trial for the 16-count money laundering charge, which involves approximately ₦8.7 billion, is scheduled to begin on February 17, 2026.
