FG drops terrorism charges against Malami and son as the Federal Government withdrew the terrorism financing allegations against former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz, replacing them with amended charges related to illegal possession of arms.
The case involving Abubakar Malami and his son originated from earlier charges filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), which accused them of offences linked to terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms.
Malami, who served as Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice between 2015 and 2023, has been facing multiple legal challenges, including separate allegations relating to financial crimes.
The current proceedings form part of ongoing judicial processes involving high-profile public officials and issues tied to national security and law enforcement.
During proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the prosecution team led by Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, informed the court of its decision to withdraw the earlier terrorism financing charge.
The prosecution applied to substitute the initial charge with an amended five-count charge bordering on illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. The court was told that the arms and live cartridges were allegedly found at Malami’s residence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
Following the amendment, Malami and his son were re-arraigned and both pleaded not guilty to the new charges. Defence counsel, Shuaibu Arua, SAN, did not oppose the withdrawal of the initial charge but urged the court to allow the defendants to retain the bail conditions previously granted.
The prosecution did not challenge the bail request, and the presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, ruled that the existing bail conditions granted on February 27 would remain in effect.
The court subsequently adjourned the case and fixed May 26 and June 15 for continuation of trial proceedings.
Earlier allegations had accused Malami of knowingly abetting terrorism financing by allegedly failing to prosecute individuals suspected of financing terrorism while serving in office.
The development that FG drops terrorism charges against Malami reflects a significant shift in the prosecution’s legal strategy, narrowing the case to allegations relating to firearms possession.
Such amendments in high-profile cases may influence public perception of judicial processes, particularly in matters involving national security and former public officials.
The case also highlights the role of the judiciary in adjudicating complex criminal allegations and ensuring due process in line with Nigeria’s legal framework.
