Former AGF Abubakar Malami and Son Arraigned by DSS Over Alleged Terrorism Financing

 

The Nigerian political landscape was rocked on February 3, 2026, as the Department of State Services (DSS) officially arraigned the former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), alongside his son. The duo appeared before a Federal High Court in Abuja to face a series of grave allegations, most notably terrorism financing and the unlawful possession of firearms.

​This development marks a significant turning point in the post-tenure legal battles of officials from the previous administration, sending shockwaves through the country’s legal and political circles.

​The Charges: A Five-Count Indictment

​The defendants were brought before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on a five-count charge. Upon the reading of the charges, both Abubakar Malami and his son entered a plea of "not guilty," setting the stage for what is expected to be one of the most high-profile legal battles in recent Nigerian history.

​The core of the prosecution's case rests on the allegation that Malami, during his time as the Chief Law Officer of the Federation, failed to act on critical intelligence and case files.

​Alleged Aiding and Abetting of Terrorism

​According to the charge sheet, the DSS accuses Abubakar Malami of deliberately aiding and abetting the financing of terrorism. The prosecution claims that while he served as the AGF, Malami allegedly refused to initiate the prosecution of suspected terrorism financiers, even after case files identifying these individuals were reportedly submitted to his office.

​This specific allegation touches on a long-standing public discourse regarding the "naming and shaming" of terror sponsors in Nigeria. For years, Nigerians have called for the prosecution of those funding insurgency, and the DSS is now alleging that the very office responsible for justice may have been a bottleneck in that process.

​Unlawful Possession of Firearms

​Beyond the weight of terrorism-related charges, the DSS also brought forward counts relating to the unlawful possession of prohibited weapons. During the arraignment, it was revealed that the former AGF and his son were allegedly found in possession of:

• ​A Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm.
• ​16 live Redstar AAA 5.20 cartridges.
• ​27 expended cartridges of the same brand.

​The DSS contends that these items were held without the requisite licenses, adding a criminal dimension to the ongoing investigation into the Malami family.

​A Multi-Agency Investigation: EFCC and DSS Convergence

​The legal woes for Abubakar Malami are not limited to the DSS. The court was also informed that the former AGF had previously been under the radar of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

​Malami is reportedly facing separate investigations related to fraud and money laundering. Just recently, he had sought court orders to vacate a forfeiture order obtained by the EFCC regarding 57 properties linked to him. The convergence of these two powerful agencies—the DSS and the EFCC—suggests a broad and coordinated effort by the state to investigate the former minister's tenure and personal dealings.

​What Happens Next?

​Following the "not guilty" plea, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the case to a later date for further proceedings. The legal teams for both the DSS and the defendants are expected to return with arguments regarding bail applications and the commencement of the trial.

​The arraignment has sparked intense debate across Nigeria. While supporters of the former AGF may view this as a political witch-hunt, proponents of the "rule of law" argue that no one, regardless of their former status, should be above the law—especially when the security of the nation is at stake.