Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has warned lawyers and litigants against attempting to interfere with judicial proceedings, insisting that such actions would not be tolerated.
The warning followed the court’s decision to grant bail to Abubakar Malami, former attorney-general of the federation (AGF), who is facing trial alongside his wife, Bashir Asabe, and his son, Abdulaziz Abubakar, over alleged money laundering offences.
Addressing parties in the case, Nwite cautioned counsel against approaching him outside the courtroom to influence proceedings, stressing his commitment to impartiality.
“Before concluding, I want to admonish and warn counsel and litigants that all judges are not the same,” the judge said.
“When I am handling any case, please do not approach me. You may engage the best lawyers in this country, but do not attempt to approach me for any form of assistance.
“I know what God has done for me by entrusting me with this responsibility, and I have vowed to discharge my duties without fear or favour. Any attempt to interfere will be vehemently resisted.”
The judge added that parties dissatisfied with his rulings have the right to seek redress at the court of appeal and, if necessary, the supreme court.
Earlier, the court granted each of the defendants bail in the sum of N500 million, with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must own landed property in Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarimpa areas of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The defendants were also ordered to submit their international passports to the court registrar and must not travel outside the country without prior court approval.
The case was adjourned until February 17 for continuation of hearing.
Malami was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges bordering on money laundering amounting to N8.7 billion. All defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
