Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulazeez, have been arraigned by the Department of State Services before the Federal High Court in Abuja on terrorism-related charges and illegal possession of firearms.
The arraignment before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik comes amid Malami’s growing legal troubles. The former AGF has previously been linked to an ongoing asset forfeiture case involving properties valued at over ₦212.8 billion, traced to Abuja, Kano, and Kebbi. That case, which followed an interim forfeiture order, was recently reassigned after the presiding judge stepped down.
The duo appeared before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on a five-count charge. Malami was accused of aiding terrorism financing by allegedly failing to prosecute suspected financiers while serving as Attorney-General. Both father and son were also charged with unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
They pleaded not guilty to all charges. The prosecution asked the court to remand them in DSS custody, but the defence sought bail orally. Justice Abdulmalik declined the request, insisting that bail applications must be made in writing.
The court adjourned the matter to February 20 for the bail hearing and commencement of trial. The firearms-related charges involve the alleged possession of a Sturm Magnum firearm, live ammunition and expended cartridges, in violation of the Terrorism Act and the Firearms Act.
