Nigeria: Ex-justice minister Abubakar Malami granted bail in money laundering case
Nigeria’s Federal High Court Grants Bail to Former Minister
Nigeria’s Federal High Court Grants Bail to Former Minister
On Wed, Oct 18, 2023, Nigeria’s Federal High Court granted bail to former Justice Minister and Attorney General Abubakar Malami in advance of his money laundering trial. Malami served as the top law officer under President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2023.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission of Nigeria has accused Malami, his son, and his wife, Hajia Asabe Bashir, of stealing and laundering public funds amounting to 8.7 billion Naira, approximately $6 million. Malami faces 16 counts of money laundering, for which he has been detained in Abuja since Sat, Dec 30, 2023. He denies all charges.
Malami served as the top law officer under President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2023.
Judge Emeka Nwite ruled that bail could be granted if the defendants ensure their availability for trial and do not interfere with witnesses. Bail was set at 500 million Naira, or approximately $350,000, for each defendant. Additionally, Malami, his son, and his wife must surrender their travel documents and cannot leave Nigeria without court approval.
The trial has been adjourned to Sat, Feb 17, 2024.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
