Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and have appeared in court on Tuesday to continue their trial in the alleged N8.7 billion money-laundering case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The high-profile proceedings, which have continued to attract public interest due to Malami’s prominence in Nigeria’s legal and political circles, have entered a new phase following the resumption of hearings.
Additionally, the former minister and his son are accused of managing and transferring funds which the EFCC alleges are proceeds of financial crimes. However, both defendants have denied the allegations and maintained their innocence.
Additionally, this case remains one of the most closely monitored corruption prosecutions involving a former senior government official.
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During his eight years as Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice under former President Muhammadu Buhari, Malami oversaw the nation’s legal affairs and played a central role in government policy and legal advisory matters.
Attorneys, reporters, and other onlookers followed the court sessions closely. Although most of the day’s hearing focused on legal arguments and a review of the evidence already before the court, the trial continues to test the EFCC’s resolve to prosecute corruption cases involving politically exposed persons.
The court then adjourned the case to a later date. When proceedings resume, both sides are expected to continue their arguments. Until the trial ends, the defendants remain presumed innocent.
EFCC Moves to Seize 57 Properties
Amid the trial, the EFCC previously urged the federal high court in Abuja to order the permanent forfeiture of 57 properties linked to former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami to the Federal Government.
Along with a number of businesses purportedly connected to the assets, the motion, designated FHC/ABJ/CS/20/2026, listed Malami, Hajia Bashir Asabe, and Abiru’ Rahman Abubakar Malami as respondents.
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BACKSTORY…
Malami is being charged with wilfully aiding and abetting the financing of terrorism by allegedly neglecting to file charges against suspected terrorism financiers whose case files were allegedly delivered to his office while he was the Attorney General of the Federation.
Recall that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC), had previously detained the former Attorney General on charges of fraud and money laundering, the court was also informed.
