ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Attorney General and Justice Minister Abubakar Malami has been granted bail by a Nigerian court after being charged with money laundering and abuse of office worth 8.7 billion naira ($6m).
Malami, 58, was one of the most powerful figures in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari (2015–2023). He is married to Buhari’s daughter, Nana Hadiza, and was widely regarded as the most influential minister of that era.
The Charges
- Malami faces 16 counts of money laundering and abuse of office.
- The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleges he diverted government funds to acquire properties across Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano states.
- The alleged assets include hotels, schools, factories, residential buildings, parcels of land, and a printing press.
Malami pleaded not guilty, describing his arrest as politically motivated.
Bail Conditions
Presiding judge Emeka Nwite ruled the offences bailable, setting bail at ₦500 million ($350,000) each for Malami, his wife, and son.
- They must provide two guarantors with property in Abuja.
- Travel documents must be surrendered to the court.
- Malami had been held in Kuje prison since December 30 before Wednesday’s ruling.
Political Context
Malami recently defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), seen as a major rival ahead of the 2027 general elections. His prosecution is viewed by some as a test of Nigeria’s anti‑corruption drive and political fault lines.
He is not the only Buhari‑era minister facing scrutiny: former aviation minister Hadi Sirika has also been accused of corruption.
Public Reaction
The EFCC’s release of Malami’s alleged property portfolio sparked widespread debate about the wealth of Nigerian politicians. Political analyst Idris Adamu told the BBC the case was shocking given Malami’s perceived invulnerability: “Seeing the video of Malami being ushered into the vehicle that would take him to Kuje prison felt surreal. This was a man that wielded so much power and influence under Buhari.”
Adamu added that the trial signals “no one is above the law, even if you are the former justice minister of a country.”
Next Steps
The case has been adjourned until February 17, 2025, when proceedings will resume.