Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday stepped down from two cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
The judge, who was recently reassigned to handle the matters by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, said his decision was based on personal reasons and the need to protect the interest of justice.
The development came as a civil suit seeking the forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to Malami was called for mention in court.
The cases were initially handled by Justice Emeka Nwite, who served as a vacation judge during the Christmas period.
Malami is also facing prosecution by the Federal Government through the Department of State Services, DSS, over alleged terrorism financing charges.
