Malami’s Money Laundering Cases Reassigned to New Judge

John Tsoho, chief judge of the Federal High Court, has reassigned the two money laundering cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Abubakar Malami, former attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice.

The cases have been transferred to Joyce Abdulmalik, who has scheduled February 27 for further proceedings.

The reassignment followed the withdrawal of Obiora Egwuatu, who stepped down from the matter on February 12, citing personal reasons and the interest of justice.

The EFCC is prosecuting Malami on a 16-count charge bordering on money laundering. In December 2025, the commission said it traced properties valued at N212 billion to the former AGF as part of investigations into his time in office. The assets — including hotels, residential buildings, schools, land and a printing press — are reportedly located in Kebbi, Kano and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Malami was arraigned alongside his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and his wife, Bashir Asabe, over allegations of laundering N8.7 billion. They pleaded not guilty to the charges.

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. After the vacation, the chief judge reassigned them to Egwuatu, who later returned the case files following his withdrawal.

Meanwhile, Malami and his son are also facing trial before Abdulmalik on a five-count charge related to terrorism financing and illegal possession of firearms.