The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and his wife, Hajia Asabe Bashir, in the sum of ₦500 million each.
Delivering the ruling, Justice Emeka Nwite emphasized that bail was granted “in the interest of justice, notwithstanding the seriousness of the allegations levelled against the defendants.”
He explained that the key consideration was whether the defendants would make themselves available for trial and avoid interfering with witnesses.
“The defendants are entitled to bail at this stage. The primary issue is whether they will attend trial and refrain from obstructing justice,” Justice Nwite stated.
The judge ordered each defendant to provide two sureties with landed property in Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarinpa, with documents verified by the deputy chief registrar. The sureties must also depose to affidavits of means.
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Justice Nwite further directed that the defendants submit their travel documents and two recent passport photographs to the court. Malami himself was barred from leaving the country without prior approval. Pending the fulfilment of these bail conditions, he was ordered to be remanded at Kuje Prison.
In a stern warning, Justice Nwite cautioned lawyers and parties against attempting to influence the court:
“I want to admonish and warn both counsel and litigants. They should know the type of court they are appearing before. Irrespective of my familiarity with you, when I am dealing with any case, please don’t approach me. The law will not be compromised under my watch,” he said.
The trial on the corruption charges, filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is scheduled to commence on February 17, 2026. The EFCC has brought a 16-count charge of alleged money laundering against Malami, his son, and his wife.