Emeka Nwite, judge of the federal high court in Abuja, has warned lawyers and litigants against any attempt to influence judicial decisions, saying such conduct would be firmly resisted.
The warning came shortly after the judge granted bail to Abubakar Malami, former attorney-general of the federation (AGF), who is standing trial alongside his wife, Bashir Asabe, and his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz, over allegations of money laundering.
Addressing the court, Nwite cautioned against approaching him outside the courtroom in a bid to sway proceedings.
“Before concluding, I want to admonish and warn counsel and litigants that all judges are not the same,” he said.
“When I am handling any case, please don’t approach me.
“When you are doing your case, you can get the best lawyers in this country to do your case, but don’t attempt to approach me for any help.
“I am not the type of judge. I know what God has done for me by giving me this job, and I have vowed to do it to the best of my ability.
“I have sworn before Almighty God and man that I am going to do my duty without fear or favour.”
“Any attempt to try this will be vehemently resisted.”
Nwite said parties dissatisfied with his rulings should seek redress through the appellate courts, noting that his decisions could be tested at the court of appeal and, ultimately, the supreme court.
Earlier, the defendants were granted bail on a N500 million bond each.
Each of the defendants must produce two sureties in like sum who must own landed property within the Asokoro, Maitama or Gwarimpa areas in the FCT.
The sureties must also swear to an affidavit of means and deposit two passport photographs with the deputy registrar of the court.
The defendants are also to deposit their international passports with the deputy registrar of the court and must not travel without the court’s permission.
Hearing in the case has been adjourned to February 17.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Malami over allegations bordering on money laundering to the tune of N8,713, 923, 759.49.
All defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge before the presiding judge.
