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Court Grants Bail to Abubakar Malami and Family
A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, his son Abdulaziz, and one of his wives, Bashir Asabe.
The court fixed the bail sum at N500 million for each defendant. The trio is facing trial over alleged money laundering offences.
Strict Bail Conditions Set by Court
Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the ruling on Wednesday. He ordered each defendant to present two sureties.
The sureties must own verified landed property in Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarimpa within Abuja. The court also directed them to submit valid title documents.
In addition, the Deputy Chief Registrar will verify the documents. The sureties must also swear affidavits of means.
Travel Restrictions Imposed
The court ordered Malami, his son, and Asabe to surrender their international passports. They must also deposit any other travel documents with the court.
Furthermore, the judge barred them from travelling outside Nigeria without prior court approval.
Background of the EFCC Case
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission arraigned the defendants on December 29, 2025. They pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge.
The charges relate to alleged money laundering involving N8.7 billion.
Following their arraignment, the court remanded them at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the bail hearing.
Allegations Detailed by EFCC
The EFCC alleged that the defendants used several companies and bank accounts to hide proceeds of unlawful activities.
According to court documents, Malami and his son allegedly concealed over N1.01 billion through Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited between 2022 and 2025.
The commission also claimed that another N600 million passed through a Sterling Bank account linked to the company.
Property and Hotel Transactions Cited
In another count, the EFCC accused the defendants of disguising N500 million used to buy a luxury duplex in Maitama, Abuja.
The commission further alleged that they laundered over N1.04 billion through the Union Bank account of Meethaq Hotels Limited.
Case Continues
The court adjourned the matter for continuation of trial. The EFCC said it will present witnesses and documents to support its case.
The defendants maintain their innocence.
Source: Court proceedings and EFCC filings
