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Terrorism financing charges withdrawn
Nigerian prosecutors have abandoned allegations that former Justice Minister Abubakar Malami and his son financed terrorism, narrowing the case to illegal firearms possession.
Revised charges detail weapons discovery
The amended charge sheet states that live ammunition and firearms were seized from Malami's home in Birnin Kebbi, located in Nigeria's north-west. Both defendants entered not-guilty pleas during Wednesday's court session.
Court maintains bail conditions
Presiding Justice Joyce Abdulmalik upheld bail set at 500 million naira (£260,000; $350,000) for each defendant. Malami and his son, Abdulaziz, must surrender their travel documents to the court. Proceedings are adjourned until 26 May.
Separate money laundering case pending
Malami remains entangled in a distinct money laundering prosecution alongside his wife and son. The former minister has publicly denounced both cases as politically driven, linking them to his departure from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and his subsequent affiliation with the newly formed African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Public and political reactions
The legal saga has captivated Nigerian audiences, with many observers scrutinising the timing and motives behind the charges. Malami, who served as attorney general and justice minister under former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2023, is married to Buhari's daughter and was regarded as one of the administration's most influential figures.
"These prosecutions are politically motivated because I have left the APC and joined the ADC, which is positioning itself as the biggest challenger for power."
Abubakar Malami
