The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), before a Federal High Court in Abuja. The arraignment, which took place today, 30 December 2025, before Justice Nwute, follows fresh allegations of financial misconduct.
Details of the Charges and Co-Defendants
The anti-graft agency filed a 16-count charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/700/2025 against the former minister. The Federal Republic of Nigeria is listed as the complainant in the case. Malami is not alone in the dock; the charges also name his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and another individual, Hajia Bashir Asabe, as co-defendants.
Court documents allege that the defendants knowingly handled, transferred, and concealed funds believed to be the proceeds of unlawful activities. Investigators have reportedly traced a substantial sum of N1,014,848,500 to a Sterling Bank account linked to the suspicious transactions.
Public Outcry and Coalition's Stance
As the legal proceedings unfold, a significant public reaction is brewing. The Coalition Against Terrorism and Corruption (CATC) has announced its intention to mobilize a one-million-man march. This protest aims to counter any potential move to secure Malami's release from EFCC detention.
In a strongly-worded statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Hassan Adebayo, the group branded Malami a "traitor in high office." The coalition accuses him of actions that directly fueled terrorism, resulted in countless innocent deaths, and constituted a betrayal of the nation. They are demanding the harshest penalty, calling for him to be sentenced to death by hanging for allegedly enabling terrorism financing through massive money laundering.
Implications and Next Steps
This case marks a significant development in Nigeria's ongoing fight against corruption, particularly when it involves high-profile former government officials. The serious nature of the allegations, which now intertwine financial crime with security concerns, elevates its national importance. All eyes will be on the Federal High Court in Abuja as the case proceeds, with the public and civil society groups closely monitoring the judiciary's handling of the matter. The EFCC's action today demonstrates its continued pursuit of individuals regardless of their former status, setting a precedent for accountability.
