Nigeria’s former justice minister Abubakar Malami is now facing terrorism‑related charges, adding a dramatic new layer to the allegations already levelled against him. The development was confirmed by the Federal High Court in Abuja, according to the report you’re viewing .
Expanding Charges
Malami, who served as Attorney General and Minister of Justice from 2015 to 2023, had previously been accused of laundering $6 million alongside his wife and son. The new charges include:
- Knowingly abetting terrorism financing by refusing to prosecute individuals suspected of supporting insurgents.
- Possession of an unlicensed pistol and ammunition, which prosecutors say amounts to engaging in acts of terrorism. Both Malami and his son have pleaded not guilty.
Arrest, Bail, and Rearrest
Malami was granted bail last month in the money‑laundering case but was rearrested immediately after his release, signalling the seriousness with which authorities are pursuing the allegations.
Political and Security Context
He is the latest senior official from former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration to face fraud‑related prosecution. Nigeria has battled a violent insurgency for more than 15 years, with over 40,000 deaths and nearly two million displaced. The new charges suggest prosecutors believe Malami’s actions — or inaction — may have contributed to the financing networks that sustain extremist groups.
What This Means
The case is likely to become one of the most high‑profile corruption‑and‑security trials in recent Nigerian history, touching on:
- Accountability for officials who oversaw the country’s justice system
- The integrity of counter‑terrorism efforts
- Political tensions between past and present administrations