Former Nigerian Justice Minister Abubakar Malami Granted Bail

Court Decision in Corruption Case

A court in Nigeria has granted bail to former Attorney General Abubakar Malami, along with his wife and son, who are accused of money laundering. Malami, aged 58, was one of the most influential figures in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2023.

He was charged in December with 16 counts of money laundering and abuse of office and has been in custody since then. In court, he pleaded not guilty to all charges, previously describing his arrest as politically motivated. Malami, who is married to the daughter of former President Buhari, Nana Hadiza, recently left the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the opposition, the African Democratic Party, viewed as the APC's main rival in the upcoming general elections of 2027.

Judge Emeka Nwite stated that the charges against Malami and his family are bailable offenses. They can be released on bail set at 500 million naira (approximately £260,000; $350,000 each) and must provide two sureties who own properties in designated areas of the capital, Abuja, as well as surrender their travel documents to the court. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleges that the former minister utilized his office to divert government funds, which were subsequently used to acquire properties in several cities across Nigeria, including Abuja. The case has been adjourned until February 17, 2025.