BREAKING: EX-Attorney-General, Abubakar Malami Granted N200m Bail [DETAILS]

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted bail to former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz Malami, in the sum of N200 million each over alleged terrorism-related offences.



Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who presided over the matter, ruled that both defendants must produce two sureties each in like sum as part of their bail conditions. The court further directed that one of the sureties must present the title deed of a developed property located in either Asokoro or Maitama, two highbrow districts of Abuja.



In addition, the judge ordered the former minister and his son to deposit their international passports with the court pending the determination of the case.

Charges Border on Terrorism Financing, Firearms Possession

Malami and his son were arraigned on February 3 on a five-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms. The charges were filed following investigations conducted by the Department of State Services (DSS).

According to the charge sheet presented before the court, the DSS accused the former AGF of allegedly refusing to prosecute individuals suspected of financing terrorism. The agency claimed that case files relating to the suspects were forwarded to the Office of the Attorney-General during Malami’s tenure, but he allegedly declined to initiate prosecution.

The prosecution argued that such refusal amounted to “knowingly abetting terrorism financing,” contrary to Section 26(2) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The DSS further alleged that Malami and his son were found in possession of a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, 16 live rounds of Redstar AAA 5’20 cartridges, and 27 expended cartridges at their residence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, without a valid licence.

Prosecutors contended that the possession of the firearm and ammunition constituted preparation to commit an act of terrorism, contrary to Section 29 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Defendants Plead Not Guilty

When the charges were read in court, both Malami and his son pleaded not guilty to all five counts.

The courtroom was filled with lawyers, political associates, and members of the public who gathered to witness the high-profile proceedings. The case has drawn significant public attention, given Malami’s previous position as the country’s chief law officer and minister of justice.

A.U. Igwe, counsel to the prosecution, informed the court that the case file had been transferred to the Department of Public Prosecution for further handling. He indicated that the transfer was part of standard procedure to ensure that the matter is thoroughly reviewed and prosecuted in line with established legal frameworks.

Legal observers note that the involvement of the Department of Public Prosecution may signal the seriousness with which the authorities intend to pursue the case.

Bail Conditions Described as Stringent

In her ruling, Justice Abdulmalik emphasized the need to balance the constitutional presumption of innocence with the gravity of the allegations. She held that while the charges were serious, the defendants were entitled to bail under the law, provided that stringent conditions were met to ensure their availability for trial.

The requirement for one surety to provide a title deed for property located in either Asokoro or Maitama underscores the court’s intent to secure substantial guarantees. Properties in these areas are among the most valuable in the Federal Capital Territory, making them significant collateral.

The court’s directive that the defendants deposit their international passports further restricts their movement outside the country, a measure often applied in cases involving serious criminal allegations.