Former justice minister and son plead not guilty as DSS alleges arms possession and links to terror financing
By Baron Stanley Eloagu | Abuja, Nigeria
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz Malami, before a Federal High Court in Abuja on allegations of terrorism financing.
The high-profile case marks a significant escalation in ongoing investigations into alleged financial networks linked to terrorism.
Court Appearance and Plea
The father-and-son duo were arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, where they both pleaded not guilty to a five-count charge brought against them.
The court proceedings set the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched legal battle involving serious national security allegations.
Details of the Allegations
According to the DSS, the former AGF is accused of knowingly facilitating terrorism financing during his tenure by allegedly failing to prosecute individuals identified as financiers of terrorist activities.
The charges further allege that Malami and his son were in possession of firearms and ammunition without valid licences, including:
- A Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm
- Sixteen live Redstar AAA cartridges
- Twenty-seven expended cartridges
Prosecutors claim the possession of these items forms part of actions linked to preparation for unlawful activities.
EFCC Investigations Resurface
The case also draws attention to earlier investigations involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had previously arrested Malami over allegations of fraud and money laundering.
The convergence of multiple probes underscores the scale of scrutiny surrounding the former justice minister.
Trial to Continue
The court is expected to fix dates for further hearings, during which both the prosecution and defence will present evidence and call witnesses.
Legal analysts say the case could test the strength of Nigeria’s anti-terror financing framework and the independence of its judicial process in handling politically exposed persons.
As proceedings unfold, the trial is likely to attract national and international attention, given the stature of the accused and the gravity of the charges.
The outcome may have far-reaching implications for accountability, rule of law, and the fight against terrorism financing in Nigeria.
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