Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has been arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) over allegations bordering on terrorism financing, marking a new turn in the legal troubles of the former government official.
Malami was taken into custody shortly after meeting bail conditions in an ongoing money-laundering case instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He had been detained at the Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja, before securing his release.
Sources said the DSS action followed the alleged discovery of arms and ammunition during an EFCC search of Malami’s residence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, as part of its financial crimes investigation. The matter was reportedly transferred to the DSS, as issues relating to illegal possession of firearms fall outside the EFCC’s statutory mandate.
The EFCC has filed a 16-count charge against Malami, accusing him of laundering over ₦8 billion through companies and Bureau De Change operators to acquire high-value properties across several states. The charges also name his wife, Asabe Bashir, and son, Abdulaziz Malami, as co-defendants.
While the terrorism financing allegation was not included in the EFCC charges, it is understood that the DSS is conducting a separate investigation into the matter. Malami has previously denied any involvement in terrorism financing.
Despite being granted bail by the court, Malami’s release was delayed amid security concerns, and he was subsequently taken into DSS custody shortly after fulfilling the court’s bail requirements.
Investigations by both agencies are ongoing.
DSS Takes Over Probe as Malami Faces Fresh Security Allegations
