The Federal Excessive Courtroom in Abuja has mounted January 7, 2026, to rule on the bail software of former Lawyer-Common of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, SAN, and different defendants in an alleged cash laundering case.
That is in keeping with proceedings earlier than Justice Emeka Nwite, following arguments from each the prosecution and defence groups within the go well with instituted by the Financial and Monetary Crimes Fee (EFCC).
The ruling date comes days after Malami, his son Abdulaziz, and one other defendant had been remanded in custody, with the courtroom reserving its listening to on the bail request.
What they’re saying
On the listening to, counsel to the EFCC, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, opposed the bail software, urging the courtroom to refuse it based mostly on the character of the allegations and the stage of the proceedings.
Alternatively, Malami’s authorized staff, led by J.B. Dauda, SAN, argued that the previous AGF is entitled to bail as a constitutional proper, stressing that he has pleaded not responsible to all prices.
After listening to submissions from each side, Justice Nwite adjourned the matter to January 7, 2026, for a ruling on the bail software.
Particulars of the fees
Nairametrics beforehand reported that the EFCC has lined up bank officers and Bureau de Change (BDC) operators as witnesses within the case.
Within the 16-count cost marked FHC/ABJ/CR/700/2025, Malami, his son Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and Hajia Bashir Asabe—an worker of Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd—are accused of contravening provisions of the Cash Laundering Act involving billions of naira.
The fees embody allegations that the defendants procured corporations to hide the illegal origin of funds, together with a sum of N1.014 billion allegedly domiciled in a Sterling Bank account.
The EFCC additional alleges that Malami acquired a number of properties in Abuja, Kano, and Kebbi State, which it claims symbolize proceeds of illegal exercise. These properties are valued at about N415 million, in keeping with the fee.
Why this issues
The case provides to a rising record of high-profile corruption and cash laundering prosecutions involving former prime authorities officers.
Given Malami’s position as Nigeria’s former Lawyer-Common and Minister of Justice, the result of each the bail ruling and the substantive trial is more likely to appeal to important authorized and political consideration.
The courtroom’s resolution on bail may additionally set the tone for the way swiftly the trial proceeds.
What you need to know
Malami is reportedly beneath investigation for no less than 18 alleged offences, together with cash laundering and abuse of workplace.
His workplace has accused the EFCC of performing in a “brazen, contemptuous, and lawless” method, allegations the anti-graft company has denied.
Malami has additionally alleged that EFCC actions in opposition to him are retaliatory, claims the fee insists are unfounded.
The case follows earlier EFCC prosecutions of former Attorneys-Common, together with Mohammed Bello Adoke, who was discharged in 2024 after a no-case submission was upheld by the courtroom.
Nairametrics will proceed to watch developments because the courtroom delivers its ruling on January 7, 2026.
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