The former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, are set to begin their bail battle today, December 2, in response to the N9 billion corruption charges brought against them by the federal government. Alongside Hajia Bashir Asabe, a staff member of Ramadiya Property Limited, who is currently being held in Kuje prison, they will appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja to argue for their release from custody.
Justice Emeka Nwite had previously scheduled today’s hearing to consider their bail application, following their arraignment on 16 counts of money laundering offenses on Tuesday. Malami and his co-defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges, which were preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on behalf of the federal government.
During the Tuesday proceedings, the defendants’ counsel, Joseph Daudu, argued for an oral bail application, stating that the offenses were bailable and the defendants were presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, the EFCC’s counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, opposed the oral application, citing the need for written evidence to consider the factors outlined in Section 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
Justice Nwite subsequently rejected the oral bail application and ordered both parties to appear before him today to argue their written bail applications. The EFCC had arraigned the former AGF and the two other defendants on a 16-count money laundering charge, which they have denied.
The case has significant implications for the country’s anti-corruption efforts, as it involves a high-ranking former government official. The federal government’s decision to prosecute Malami and his co-defendants demonstrates its commitment to holding public figures accountable for their actions. As the bail hearing commences, the court will carefully consider the arguments presented by both parties to determine whether to grant the defendants bail or remand them in custody pending the outcome of the trial. The outcome of this case will be closely watched, as it may set a precedent for future corruption cases involving public officials.
