Court Grants Malami, Son N200m Bail Each Over Alleged Terrorism Financing

A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz Malami, in the sum of N200 million each in connection with alleged terrorism-related offences.
Presiding Judge Joyce Abdulmalik ordered that each defendant must present two sureties in like sum. One of the sureties must provide the title deed of a developed property located in either Asokoro or Maitama, Abuja. The court also directed the Malamis to deposit their international passports pending the continuation of trial.
The father and son were arraigned on February 3, facing a five-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms.
The Department of State Services (DSS) accused Malami of refusing to prosecute individuals allegedly involved in terrorism financing, whose case files were reportedly forwarded to the AGF’s office for legal action.
According to the charge sheet, Malami “knowingly abetted terrorism financing” by declining to initiate prosecution against the suspects, contrary to Section 26(2) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The DSS further alleged that the Malamis possessed a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, 16 live rounds of Redstar AAA 5.20 cartridges, and 27 expended cartridges at their residence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, without a licence. The prosecution claimed that the firearm and ammunition were intended for use in committing acts of terrorism, contrary to Section 29 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Counsel to the prosecution, A.U. Igwe, informed the court that the case file has been transferred to the Department of Public Prosecution for further handling.
The court adjourned the hearing to March 4, 2026.