EFCC Re-Arraigns Former AGF Malami, Wife, and Son on Money Laundering Charges
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken a significant step in its anti-corruption efforts by re-arraigning former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, along with his wife, Asabe Bashir, and son, Abdulaziz, on charges of money laundering. The proceedings unfolded today, February 27, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja, marking a pivotal moment in this high-profile case.
Court Proceedings and Charge Corrections
During the hearing, EFCC's lead counsel, Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, informed the court that the matter was scheduled for the defendants' re-arraignment. He also made an oral application to correct the sums listed in Counts 11 and 12 of the charges. Specifically, Okutepa requested that Count 11 be amended to read N325 million instead of N325 billion, and Count 12 to read N120 million instead of N120 billion.
The defence lawyer, Joseph Daudu, SAN, did not oppose these corrections, leading Justice Abdulmalik to grant the application. This adjustment ensures the charges accurately reflect the alleged financial misconduct, avoiding potential procedural issues that could arise from inaccuracies in the indictment.
Plea and Case History
Despite the corrected charges, the defendants pleaded not guilty to all 16 counts of money laundering brought against them by the EFCC. The case, originally filed under the charge number FHC/ABJ/CR/700/2025, has a complex history of judicial reassignments.
It was initially before Justice Emeka Nwite, who served as the vacation judge during the Christmas and New Year break. After the holiday period, the Chief Judge reassigned the case to Justice Egwuatu, who later recused himself, leading to its current assignment to Justice Abdulmalik. This series of reassignments highlights the procedural intricacies involved in high-stakes legal battles.
Previous Arraignment and Bail Conditions
Malami, his wife, and son were first arraigned before Justice Nwite on December 30, 2025. Following that initial hearing, Malami and his son were remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre, while Asabe was held at the Suleja Correctional Centre. However, on January 7, they were granted bail set at N500 million each, with the condition of providing two sureties each in the same amount.
This bail arrangement allowed them temporary freedom as they await further court proceedings, underscoring the balance between ensuring their presence for trial and respecting legal rights in the Nigerian judicial system.
Implications and Broader Context
The re-arraignment of such a prominent figure as Abubakar Malami, who served as the nation's top legal officer, sends a strong message about the EFCC's commitment to combating financial crimes, regardless of the individuals involved. It also reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability and transparency within Nigeria's public sector.
As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by legal experts, anti-corruption advocates, and the general public, potentially setting precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future. The outcome could influence public trust in the judiciary and the effectiveness of Nigeria's anti-graft agencies.
