New Judge Takes Over ₦8.7 Billion Fraud Trial Involving Ex-AGF Malami

The trial involving former Nigerian Attorney General Abubakar Malami in an alleged ₦8.7 billion money laundering case has seen a new judge assigned by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case includes asset forfeiture suits targeting properties allegedly linked to Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and others associated with Rahamaniyya Properties Limited.

The EFCC filed charges against Malami and his associates, accusing them of conspiring to launder ₦8.7 billion through the acquisition and retention of properties believed to be proceeds of unlawful activities. The trial began with the arraignment of the defendants in December, with subsequent legal proceedings leading to the reassignment of the case to Justice Obiora Egwuatu for the asset forfeiture suit.

Malami's legal team has challenged the interim forfeiture order issued against his assets, arguing that the properties listed were lawfully acquired and not linked to any criminal activities. The case is ongoing, with arguments presented to the court to set aside the forfeiture order.