Abubakar Malami, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) as authorities carry out ongoing investigations. Malami was taken into DSS custody shortly after being released on bail from the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja, where he had been held since early December. The DSS is working to secure a court order to keep him detained until the investigation is completed, which could take several months.
Malami’s detention follows allegations that he, along with his wife and son, attempted to hide assets worth about N8.7 billion. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) claimed the family used multiple companies, bank accounts, and high-value real estate in Abuja and other locations to conceal the funds. In December, the family was arraigned on 16 counts of money laundering and conspiracy, all of which they pleaded not guilty to.
Earlier, Malami struggled to meet the conditions of the bail granted to him, which led to his continued detention from December 8. In early January, a Federal High Court approved bail for Malami and his family, setting each bail at N500 million. The court required two sureties with verifiable property in specific areas of Abuja and instructed that property documents be deposited with the court for verification.
After fulfilling the bail conditions, Malami was arrested again by the DSS as he was leaving the correctional facility. Reports suggest that investigators are examining his role in handling a list of suspected Nigerian terror financiers released by the United Arab Emirates in 2021. The list named six Nigerians allegedly linked to Boko Haram as supporters of terrorism, drawing questions about how these individuals were able to operate within Nigeria and whether authorities acted on intelligence from foreign governments.
Malami’s case reflects ongoing scrutiny of former government officials. During his tenure as Attorney General from 2015 to 2023, he was involved in major corruption cases, asset recoveries, and legal opinions that generated public discussion. Sources indicate that the DSS is also questioning him about other matters, including an arms cache reportedly found in his Kebbi home, along with additional petitions related to terrorism financing.
Authorities warn that the investigation will take time and that Malami’s release is not expected in the near future. The DSS, as the primary agency handling the case, is coordinating with other security bodies to ensure that all aspects of the allegations are thoroughly reviewed.