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EFCC Re-Arraigns Former AGF Abubakar Malami and Family on Money Laundering Allegations
On February 27, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, alongside his wife Asabe Bashir and son Abdulaziz, back before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The trio faced fresh arraignment on charges related to money laundering.
Case Reassignment and Corrections in Charges
The hearing marked the reassignment of the case to Justice Joyce Abdulmalik. EFCC’s lead counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Jibrin Okutepa, informed the court that the defendants were to be re-arraigned. He also requested a correction in the monetary figures stated in the charges: amending Count 11 from N325 billion to N325 million, and Count 12 from N120 billion to N120 million. The defense, represented by SAN Joseph Daudu, did not oppose these adjustments, and Justice Abdulmalik approved the application.
Defendants’ Plea and Legal Proceedings
Despite the serious allegations, Malami, his wife, and son all entered pleas of not guilty to the 16 counts of money laundering leveled against them by the EFCC. The charges are part of ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to clamp down on financial crimes, which have seen increased prosecutions in recent years.
Background: Previous Court Appearances and Bail Conditions
Initially, the case was handled by Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided during the holiday vacation period. Following the vacation, the Chief Judge reassigned the matter to Justice Egwuatu, who later recused himself, leading to the current reassignment to Justice Abdulmalik.
The original arraignment took place on December 30, 2025, under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/700/2025. At that time, Malami and his son were detained at Kuje Correctional Centre, while Asabe Bashir was held at Suleja Correctional Centre. On January 7, all three were granted bail set at N500 million each, with two sureties each of equivalent value.
Context and Significance
This case highlights the Nigerian government’s intensified crackdown on corruption and illicit financial activities. According to recent data from Transparency International, Nigeria ranks 150th out of 180 countries on the Corruption Perceptions Index, underscoring the ongoing challenges the country faces in governance and financial integrity.
Similar high-profile cases, such as the prosecution of former governors and public officials, demonstrate the EFCC’s commitment to holding influential figures accountable. The outcome of this trial is being closely watched as a potential indicator of Nigeria’s judicial independence and anti-corruption resolve.
