DSS has reportedly deployed more than 50 operatives to the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre
The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly deployed more than 50 operatives to the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre in Abuja following the granting of bail to former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), amid an ongoing terrorism financing investigation.
According to an exclusive report by Sahara Reporters, the heavy security deployment occurred shortly after a Federal High Court in Abuja granted Malami bail in connection with an alleged ₦8.7 billion money laundering case instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Sources disclosed that the DSS operatives arrived at Kuje Prison in a convoy of about six Toyota Hilux vehicles, taking strategic positions around the correctional facility. The unusual security buildup has heightened tension within the area and sparked concerns over possible fresh security actions against the former justice minister.
Security sources hinted that the deployment is linked to a separate terrorism financing probe, which is reportedly being handled by security agencies alongside the ongoing EFCC prosecution.
On Wednesday, the Federal High Court granted Malami, his wife, and his son bail in the sum of ₦500 million each, with stringent conditions. These include the provision of two sureties per defendant, each owning verifiable landed property in high-value areas of Abuja, as well as the submission of travel documents to the court.
The court further ordered that Malami remain in custody at the Kuje Correctional Centre until all bail conditions are fully perfected.
Following the court’s decision, sources close to Malami alleged that the DSS deployment may be part of a plan to re-arrest him on fresh or related security charges once he regains freedom. His legal team has reportedly expressed concern that such actions could undermine the rule of law and due process.
However, security agencies are yet to issue an official statement clarifying the purpose of the deployment or confirming whether new charges are being prepared.
Malami, who served as Nigeria’s chief law officer from 2015 to 2023, has been under increasing scrutiny over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure. The emergence of a terrorism financing angle has further elevated the case into a matter of national security concern, drawing significant public and political attention.
As of the time of filing this report, both the DSS and the EFCC have remained silent on the next line of action.
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