‘Judge’s admonition on alleged approach not directed at Malami’

Supporters of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), have clarified that the admonition of the presiding judge in his money laundering trial was not directed at him.

Justice Emeka Nwite had in a statement on Wednesday warned lawyers and litigants not to approach him for favours when they have matters before him as he is an “unapproachable” judge.

In a statement on Friday, the Malami Support Organisation (MSO) said the judge’s statement had been mischaracterised and misrepresented as though it was directed against Malami, who is facing trial before the court over a 16-count charge bordering on money laundering worth N9 billion.

The MSO stated, “The warning named no individual, accused no party, singled out no counsel. It was a routine judicial admonition, not an allegation, indictment or finding of misconduct.

“For absolute clarity, Mr Abubakar Malami, CON, has not been accused by any court of bribery, improper approach or judicial interference. Any suggestion to the contrary is false, reckless and misleading.

“We do not seek validation. We do not demand sympathy. We do not applaud institutions for performing constitutional duties.

“We insist, without apology, that judicial warnings must not be weaponised after the fact. Prosecutorial commentary must not substitute for evidence. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) must adhere to constitutional processes in its asset investigations. Justice must be determined in court, not headlines.

Mr Abubakar Malami will answer to the law through due process, not manufactured perception. Truth requires no embellishment. Justice needs no propaganda.”

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