In a significant judicial development, a Nigerian court has authorized the release on bail of former Attorney General Abubakar Malami, alongside his wife and son, amidst ongoing money laundering proceedings. The 58-year-old former minister, recognized as one of the most powerful officials in ex-President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration (2015-2023), faces sixteen counts of financial misconduct and abuse of power.
Presiding Judge Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court ruled Wednesday that the allegations constitute bailable offenses. The court set bail at 500 million naira (approximately $350,000) for each defendant, with additional requirements including two property-owning guarantors from designated areas of Abuja and the surrender of all travel documents.
The case, prosecuted by Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), centers on allegations that Malami exploited his ministerial position to divert government funds for acquiring luxury properties across multiple Nigerian cities. The defendant has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges and previously characterizing his arrest as politically motivated.
Malami’s political trajectory adds complexity to the case. Recently, he departed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the opposition African Democratic Congress—viewed as the APC’s primary challenger in upcoming 2027 general elections. His familial connections to former President Buhari, through marriage to Buhari’s daughter Nana Hadiza, further heighten the case’s political significance.
This prosecution represents part of a broader anti-corruption initiative targeting former Buhari administration officials, including ex-Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika. The proceedings have been adjourned until February 17, 2025, allowing time for case preparation while the defendants remain free under court-supervised conditions.