By Wellington Jopelo
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), his son Abubakar Malami, and one of his wives, Bashir Asabe, at Kuje Correctional Centre. The order will stand pending the hearing and determination of their bail applications.
Justice Emeka Nwite issued the remand after hearing arguments from the defence team led by Joseph Daudu (SAN) and prosecution counsel Ekele Iheneacho (SAN). The family faces a 16-count money laundering charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC alleges that the Malamis conspired over several years to conceal and disguise proceeds from unlawful activities running into billions of naira. The offences reportedly involved using companies and bank accounts to launder funds, retaining cash as collateral for loans, and acquiring high-value properties in Abuja, Kano, and other locations.
Some of the alleged crimes were committed while Malami served as Attorney-General, in breach of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011, as amended, and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.