Abuja, Nigeria – A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja has dismissed the bail application filed by former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, following his arrest and detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The ruling was delivered by Justice Babangida Hassan, who declined to grant Malami’s request for release, allowing the anti-graft agency to continue holding him as investigations progress. The EFCC confirmed the court’s decision in an official communication released on Wednesday.
The former AGF has been at the centre of ongoing corruption allegations, including issues linked to legal fees related to the recovery of Abacha loot, alleged money laundering activities, and abuse of public office.
EFCC Reacts to Court Ruling
The EFCC welcomed the judgment, stressing that Malami’s detention is lawful and necessary to ensure proper investigation and prosecution. The agency maintains that due process is being followed and that the former minister will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
Background to Malami’s Legal Troubles
Malami served as Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice from 2015 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
He was arrested earlier this month in Abuja after EFCC operatives raided properties linked to him in the FCT and in Kebbi State.
His legal team insists that Malami is being persecuted and that the EFCC’s actions were triggered by controversy surrounding the findings of the Justice Ayo Salami Commission of Inquiry, which investigated the suspended EFCC leadership.
What Comes Next
With the bail request dismissed, Malami is expected to remain in EFCC custody while legal processes continue. His lawyers are likely to pursue further legal action to secure his release or challenge the ruling.
The case continues to generate nationwide interest due to Malami’s prominent role in Nigeria’s legal and political landscape, as well as the broader implications for accountability and anti-corruption efforts in the country.
