Ex-AGF Abubakar Malami Taken Back into DSS Custody Amid Terror Financing Probe
Former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), may face prolonged detention as the Department of State Services (DSS) works to obtain a court order extending his custody amid ongoing investigations into alleged terrorism financing.
Malami was taken into DSS custody shortly after he was released on bail from the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja, where he had been detained since early December over allegations initially brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The DSS is seeking an extended detention, citing the sensitive and complex nature of the investigations, which are expected to take months.
The former AGF, his wife, and son had been arraigned on 16 counts of money laundering and conspiracy related to allegedly concealing N8.7 billion through multiple corporate entities, bank accounts, and high-value real estate transactions. They all pleaded not guilty. Bail was granted in early January on the condition of N500 million each, with sureties and verifiable property documentation. However, Malami was taken back into custody twelve days later, shortly after perfecting his bail.
Authorities are reportedly questioning Malami over his handling of a 2021 list of suspected Nigerian terror financiers released by the United Arab Emirates, which included individuals linked to Boko Haram. The probe is also said to cover an alleged arms cache found in his Kebbi residence and other terrorism-related petitions.
During his tenure as Attorney General, Malami had vowed that no individual linked to terrorism or terrorism financing would be shielded from prosecution. Investigators are now revisiting those declarations in light of the current allegations.
Analysts note that Malami’s case is part of a broader pattern of scrutiny of former senior officials, particularly those who held influential positions during the previous administration. His tenure saw him handle high-profile prosecutions, asset recoveries, and legal opinions that often drew public attention and debate.
The ongoing investigation underscores the gravity of allegations of terrorism financing and the seriousness with which authorities are approaching the matter.
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