“I Cannot Be Influenced” — Justice Nwite Issues Strong Warning to Malami, Lawyers, EFCC
Story: written by Joseph January 7,2027
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has firmly cautioned lawyers and litigants against attempting to influence his rulings, declaring that he cannot be compromised in the course of dispensing justice.
The judge issued the warning on Wednesday shortly after ruling on a consolidated bail application filed by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his co-defendants.
Malami is standing trial alongside his wife, Asabe Bashir, and his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz, over an alleged ₦8.7 billion money laundering case.
Addressing counsel in court, Justice Nwite stressed that judges differ in character and principles, warning that he should not be approached privately for any form of assistance.
“Get the best lawyers to argue your case, but never try to approach me for favour,” he said. “I am not that kind of judge. God gave me this responsibility, and I have committed myself to carry it out faithfully, without fear or favour.”
The judge further warned that any effort to interfere with the course of justice would be strongly resisted, adding that parties dissatisfied with his decisions have the right to seek redress at the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court.
Earlier in the proceedings, Justice Nwite granted bail to Malami, his wife, and his son in the sum of ₦500 million each, with two sureties of equal value. The sureties must be property owners in Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarimpa areas of the Federal Capital Territory.
