Abubakar Malami: A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, alongside his wife and son, at the Kuje Correctional Centre, pending the determination of their bail applications.
The order followed their arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations bordering on money laundering and related financial crimes.
The anti-graft agency is prosecuting the matter pursuant to relevant provisions of Nigeria’s anti-money-laundering statutes.
At the proceedings, counsel to the EFCC informed the court that the defendants were brought on charges arising from investigations into alleged suspicious financial transactions and the movement of funds believed to be proceeds of unlawful activities.
The prosecution urged the court to remand the defendants in a custodial facility pending the hearing and determination of their bail applications.
Counsel representing Malami, his wife, and son opposed the remand request and applied for bail, arguing that the defendants are responsible citizens who would make themselves available for trial and would not interfere with the course of justice.
Defence counsel further contended that the allegations remain unproven and that the defendants are entitled to the presumption of innocence under the Constitution.
In a brief ruling, the trial judge ordered that the defendants be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre and adjourned the matter to a later date for the hearing of the bail applications.
The court also directed the prosecution to ensure the defendants’ access to legal representation while in custody.
The development has drawn significant public attention, given Malami’s former position as the nation’s chief law officer and his prominent role in the previous administration.
The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to pursuing corruption-related cases without fear or favour, stressing that all suspects are treated in accordance with the law.
The case has been adjourned, and proceedings are expected to continue with arguments on bail before substantive trial dates are fixed. Abubakar Malami.
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