DSS Arraigns Malami, Son on Terrorism Financing and Firearms Charges

Abubakar Malami, former Attorney General of the Federation, and his son, Abdulaziz, appeared before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, facing a five-count charge related to alleged terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms. Both defendants pleaded not guilty.

The Department of State Services (DSS) alleges that while serving as AGF and Minister of Justice, Malami knowingly failed to prosecute individuals accused of financing terrorism. The charges also include claims that Malami and his son stored firearms at their residence in Gesse Phase II, Birnin Kebbi LGA, Kebbi State, without proper authorization.

Specifically, the DSS claims the defendants possessed a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, 16 live Redstar AAA 5’20 cartridges, and 27 expended cartridges, in violation of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Firearms Act, 2004.

After the arraignment, prosecuting lawyer Calistus Eze requested that the court remand the defendants in DSS custody and set a trial date. Defense counsel Shuaibu Aruwan (SAN) applied orally for bail, citing that the Malamis had been in DSS detention for over two weeks. Justice Abdulmalik rejected the oral bail request, instructing the defense to submit a formal bail application.

The court ordered that the defendants remain in DSS custody and adjourned proceedings until February 20 for the commencement of trial.

The five-count charge sheet alleges that Malami facilitated terrorism financing through inaction, and that both he and his son unlawfully possessed firearms and ammunition at their residence, in violation of Nigerian law.