Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court has withdrawn from two cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
The judge announced his decision on Thursday, citing personal reasons and what he described as the interest of justice.
The development came shortly after a civil suit seeking the forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to Mr Malami was mentioned in court.
Justice Egwuatu had recently been reassigned to handle the cases by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho.
The matters were previously before Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over them as vacation judge during the Christmas break.
It remains unclear when the cases will be reassigned to another judge for further proceedings.