Table of Contents

  1. Dismissal of Allegations
  2. Statement from Malami
  3. Respect for the Judiciary
  4. EFCC Accusations
  5. Conclusion

The former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has rejected claims that individuals associated with him attempted to bribe the presiding judge in his ongoing trial.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Malami’s media aide, Mohammed Bello Doka, characterized a recent press release from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as misleading and intentionally crafted to suggest an effort to influence Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja.

The statement firmly denied that any member of Malami’s legal team, family, associates, or office contacted or attempted to contact the judge for any favor, asserting that such implications were unfounded and irresponsible.

According to the statement, Malami, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former Attorney-General, holds the judiciary in high esteem and has complete confidence in the integrity of Justice Nwite, emphasizing that there was never any reason or intention to seek inappropriate engagement with the court.

The statement further explained that comments attributed to Justice Nwite during court proceedings were general cautionary warnings typically given to all attorneys and litigants appearing before him, and were not directed specifically at Malami or any of the defendants.

Malami’s team accused the EFCC of "weaponizing" a routine judicial admonition and transforming it into what they described as a sensational narrative aimed at tarnishing his reputation in the public eye.

“The EFCC’s approach raises concerns that it is conducting a media trial instead of allowing the case to be resolved solely based on evidence and due process in the court,” the statement noted.

It further stated that Malami and his co-defendants have submitted themselves to the court's jurisdiction, complied with all lawful orders, and continue to have faith in the judicial process.

The statement urged the anti-graft agency to avoid misleading the public or prejudicing ongoing proceedings through press releases, emphasizing that accusations should be substantiated in court rather than in the media.

Frequently Asked Questions

What allegations did Abubakar Malami dismiss?

Abubakar Malami dismissed allegations that individuals associated with him attempted to bribe the presiding judge in his ongoing trial.

What did Malami's aide say about the EFCC's press release?

Malami's aide described the EFCC's press release as misleading and suggested that it was crafted to imply an attempt to influence the judge.

How does Malami view the judiciary?

Malami holds the judiciary in high regard and has full confidence in the integrity of Justice Nwite, asserting that there was no intention to seek improper engagement with the court.