The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to arraign former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, before the Federal High Court in Abuja today, December 30, in connection with alleged financial crimes linked to his time in office.
Malami, who served as Nigeria’s Justice Minister for eight years under former president Muhammadu Buhari, is expected to be docked on a 16-count charge bordering primarily on money laundering, alongside other related financial offences. His plea is scheduled to be taken before Justice Emeka Nwite.
Security around the Federal High Court has been significantly heightened ahead of the proceedings. At the time of filing this report, operatives of the EFCC had taken full control of security within and around the court premises. The measures are aimed at preventing any disruption and ensuring that the arraignment proceeds without incident, amid heightened public interest in the case.
The former Attorney-General has reportedly been in the custody of the anti-graft agency for close to one month. His detention forms part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of money laundering and corruption associated with his tenure as the nation’s chief law officer. According to sources familiar with the probe, investigators are examining suspected cases of mishandling public funds and other financial irregularities involving government resources.
Malami held office between 2015 and 2023, a period during which he played a central role in Nigeria’s legal and justice system. As Attorney-General, he was responsible for advising the federal government on legal matters and overseeing the prosecution of criminal cases on behalf of the state. His long tenure made him one of the most influential cabinet members in the previous administration.
The EFCC has not publicly disclosed full details of the charges, but the agency has reiterated its commitment to ensuring accountability among current and former public officials, regardless of status or political affiliation. The arraignment marks another high-profile case in the commission’s ongoing anti-corruption drive.
Legal observers are closely watching the proceedings, noting that the case could have significant implications for public trust in governance and the rule of law. Malami is entitled to the presumption of innocence under Nigerian law until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Further developments are expected as the court begins hearing the matter and decides on bail conditions, should an application be made by the defence.
