Nigeria’s former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, on Monday pleaded not guilty to allegations of money laundering, concealment of illicit funds, and unlawful acquisition of assets valued at over ₦1.014 billion.
Malami entered the plea before Federal High Court, Abuja, alongside his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and an associate, Hajia Bashir Asabe. The trio are facing a 16-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly conspired to knowingly handle, transfer, and conceal funds suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities. EFCC investigators told the court that ₦1.014 billion linked to the alleged transactions was traced to a Sterling Bank account connected to the defendants.
Court filings further allege that Malami laundered large sums of money to acquire choice properties in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and other locations across the country.
The EFCC claimed that assets valued at about ₦212.8 billion were allegedly traced to Malami and his associates.
The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to all the charges when they were read in court.
Following the arraignment, arguments commenced on applications for bail, with the court expected to rule on the matter at a later date.
Malami served as Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice for eight years under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Further proceedings in the case are expected as the trial continues.
Godfrey Eshiemoghie
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