In a significant development at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, alongside his son and another individual, have entered pleas of not guilty to a sixteen-count charge of alleged money laundering.
Court Arraignment and Plea
The high-profile arraignment took place on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the case. Abubakar Malami, who once held the nation's top legal office, stood in the dock to face the serious allegations brought against him by the prosecution.
His son and the other co-defendant similarly denied all charges read to them in the courtroom. The charges, which total sixteen separate counts, all center on accusations of financial misconduct and the illegal movement of funds.
Details of the Charges and Proceedings
While the full specifics of the money laundering charge are still emerging, the sheer number of counts indicates a complex and substantial case. Legal observers note that such a detailed charge sheet suggests a lengthy investigation preceded the court action.
The case was called before a judge at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the nation's capital, which has jurisdiction over such financial crimes. The plea of not guilty sets the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched and potentially protracted legal battle.
Implications and Next Steps
The not guilty plea means the prosecution must now prepare to present its evidence to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt. The court will likely set dates for the commencement of the trial proper, where witnesses will be called and documents tendered.
This case has drawn intense public interest due to Malami's former position as the chief law officer of the country. His tenure as former Attorney General involved overseeing numerous anti-corruption and financial crime cases, adding a layer of irony to the current proceedings.
The legal teams for the defendants will now focus on preparing their defense strategy to counter the prosecution's claims. The outcome of this case is anticipated to have significant repercussions in Nigeria's political and legal spheres.
