In a dramatic turn of events, security operatives have taken back into custody Abdulaziz Malami, the son of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, shortly after he was processed for release on bail from the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.
Bail Process Completed Before Sudden Rearrest
The incident unfolded on Friday, January 19, 2026. Officials from the Federal High Court had arrived at the correctional facility with fully completed bail documents, paving the way for Abdulaziz's release. According to sources familiar with the situation, he was briefly handed over to court bailiffs.
However, in a swift intervention, security agents stepped in and rearrested him, returning him to custody. The precise reasons for this fresh arrest have not been officially disclosed, but sources indicate it was linked to renewed security assessments and intelligence.
A source at Kuje Centre stated: "He was released to the court bailiffs with fully processed bail papers but was immediately rearrested by security agents." Security personnel were reportedly monitoring activities around the prison prior to the attempted release.
Ongoing N8.7 Billion Money Laundering Trial
Abdulaziz Malami is a co-defendant in a high-profile trial before Justice Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja. He faces charges alongside his father, former AGF Abubakar Malami, and his mother, Asabe Malami. The case centers on allegations of money laundering involving a staggering sum of N8.7 billion.
All three defendants have entered pleas of not guilty to the charges brought against them. The court had previously granted each defendant bail in the sum of N500 million, with two sureties required in like sum. The trial is scheduled to commence on February 17.
EFCC's Massive Asset Forfeiture Order
This legal drama follows a significant move by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) earlier this month. The anti-graft agency secured an interim forfeiture order for 57 properties linked to Abubakar Malami and his family.
The assets, valued at a colossal N213.23 billion, are spread across four states:
- Abuja
- Kebbi
- Kano
- Kaduna
Court filings reveal that the properties, associated with family members including Abdulaziz Malami, are diverse. They encompass:
- University buildings and schools
- Agro-allied factories
- Hotels and filling stations
- Pharmacies and supermarkets
- Various commercial shops and business premises
This forfeiture order was granted less than 12 hours after the court approved bail for the Malami family, highlighting the intensity of the EFCC's pursuit of the case. The commission had earlier summoned the former AGF for an interview at its Abuja headquarters in November, signaling the depth of the investigation.
The rearrest of Abdulaziz Malami adds a new layer of complexity to this already intricate legal and financial saga, raising questions about the next steps in the prosecution of one of Nigeria's most prominent former officials and his family.
