Federal High Court Postpones Terrorism Trial of Former AGF Malami and Son
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has officially adjourned the high-profile terrorism financing trial involving former Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami and his son, Abdulaziz, to April 15, 2026. This development marks another chapter in the legal proceedings against the prominent African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain.
Initial Arraignment and Charges
Recall that the Department of State Services (DSS) first brought the former minister and his son before the court on February 3, 2026, on a five-count charge. The allegations specifically include financing terrorism activities and the illegal possession of firearms, serious offenses under Nigerian law.
The court session on March 10 saw both defendants present, with Justice Joyce Abdulmalik presiding over the proceedings. Prosecuting counsel Akinlolu Kehinde, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), informed the court that he had only recently been instructed to take over the case. He subsequently requested additional time to properly interface with witnesses before the trial could commence in earnest.
Bail Conditions and Related Legal Matters
This terrorism case follows closely on the heels of separate bail granted to Malami, his wife, and son on February 27 regarding different allegations of fraud and financial recklessness. In that matter, the court granted them bail at N200 million each, with two sureties required in like sum.
The defendants were also ordered to surrender their international passports to the court and remain in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service until they fulfill all bail conditions. This precautionary measure aims to ensure their availability for subsequent court appearances.
Background Context and Political Dimensions
Abubakar Malami, a significant figure in the opposition ADC party, faces these terrorism charges alongside his son. The prosecution alleges failure to prosecute terrorism financiers whose case files were reportedly forwarded to the attorney-general's office during Malami's tenure.
In a related development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has separately charged Malami, his son, and one of his wives, Bashir Asaba, with a 16-count charge involving alleged money laundering of ₦8.7 billion. They have pleaded not guilty to these corruption charges, which were filed on December 29, 2025.
Malami has publicly claimed political persecution, alleging that the EFCC is targeting him due to his defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the ADC. He has called for the EFCC chairman to recuse himself from his investigation, though this request remains pending.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for April 15, when proceedings in the terrorism financing case are expected to advance substantially. Legal observers anticipate this trial will attract significant public attention given the high-profile nature of the defendants and the serious charges involved.
