Court remands Malami, son, wife in Kuje prison

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), along with his son, Abubakar Malami, and his wife, Bashir Asabe, at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the determination of their bail applications.

Court Decision and Next Hearing Date

Justice Emeka Nwite issued the remand order on Tuesday, December 30, directing that the trio remain in custody until the court rules on their bail.

The court also scheduled January 5, 2026, for the substantive hearing of the motion, allowing both Malami’s legal team and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) time to prepare their arguments.

EFCC’s Allegations

The EFCC has filed a 16-count charge bordering on money laundering against Malami, his son, and his wife.

According to the anti-graft agency, the defendants allegedly conspired over several years to conceal, retain and disguise proceeds believed to have been obtained unlawfully, running into billions of naira.

The agency further accused them of using multiple companies and bank accounts, retaining large cash sums as loan collateral and acquiring high-value properties in Abuja, Kano and other parts of the country.

Claims of Political Persecution

Malami has denied all allegations through statements released by his media team.

He described the case as politically motivated and maintained that he would vigorously defend himself in court.

Background to the Case

The former AGF was arrested by the EFCC on December 8, 2025.

The arrest was linked to allegations ranging from terrorism financing to controversial handling of legal fees tied to the recovery of the $322.5 million Abacha loot, as well as issues surrounding the management of funds from conditional cash transfer programmes.

Investigations reportedly traced assets worth over N200 billion to Malami, with the EFCC linking a significant portion of the wealth to major financial transactions handled during his tenure between 2015 and 2023.

What Happens Next

Malami, his son and his wife will remain at the Kuje Correctional Centre until the court decides on their bail request.

The substantive hearing scheduled for January 5, 2026, is expected to be a major turning point as both sides present full arguments before the court.

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