The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), into custody for failing to meet the stringent bail conditions previously granted to him. The development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing probe into alleged financial misconduct during his tenure.
A senior EFCC official confirmed the detention on Tuesday evening, stating, “We arrested him for not meeting his bail conditions, and he will remain in our custody until he complies.”
Sources within the anti-graft agency revealed that Malami is under investigation for at least 18 offenses, including money laundering, abuse of office, and terrorism financing. “The offenses are numerous, and our probe continues to uncover related transactions. We cannot yet quantify the total amount involved,” one insider said.
The investigation reportedly covers 46 bank accounts linked to Malami, with particular focus on dealings involving the repatriation of over $490 million in Abacha-era looted funds and potential ties to terrorism financing. Malami’s passport has been seized, barring him from international travel.
This is not the first time Malami has faced EFCC scrutiny since leaving office. On November 29, 2025, he was interrogated by the commission and later released on bail. Following that session, he described the interaction as “productive” and dismissed the allegations as “fabricated,” posting on X: “The engagement was successful, and I am eventually released while on an appointment for further engagement as the truth relating to the fabricated allegations against me continue to unfold.”
Attempts to reach EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale for comment on the latest detention were unsuccessful as of press time.
Malami’s arrest comes amid a wider crackdown on high-profile figures from previous administrations, reflecting the Tinubu government’s commitment to tackling corruption. Legal experts predict the case could be prolonged due to the complexity of the charges and the political sensitivities involved.
The EFCC has not announced a timeline for arraignment, but sources suggest further revelations on financial trails could emerge in the coming weeks.
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