By John Umeh
The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail in the sum of N200 million each to former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz, following their arraignment on charges related to alleged terrorism links and unlawful possession of firearms.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik delivered the ruling on Friday, February 27, after hearing arguments presented by their lead counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN. Despite approving their bail, the court ordered that both defendants remain in custody at the Kuje Correctional Centre until they meet all the conditions attached to their release.
As part of the bail requirements, the court directed Malami and his son to provide two sureties each. One of the sureties must own landed property in either Maitama or Asokoro, two high-profile districts in Abuja. The property documents are to be submitted to the Deputy Chief Registrar of the court for verification.
Additionally, the sureties must submit sworn affidavits confirming their financial capacity and provide two recent passport photographs. The court also ordered the defendants to surrender their international passports, along with their own passport photographs, as part of the bail process.
Justice Abdulmalik scheduled March 4 as the date for the commencement of trial.
The Department of State Services (DSS) had earlier arraigned Malami and his son on a five-count charge involving allegations of terrorism-related offences and illegal possession of firearms. According to the prosecution, Malami is accused of failing to act on case files involving individuals suspected of financing terrorism during his tenure as Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
Both father and son are also accused of keeping firearms and ammunition at their residence in Gesse Phase II area of Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area in Kebbi State without proper authorization.
The charges include alleged possession of a Sturm Magnum firearm, live cartridges, and spent ammunition, offences said to violate provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, as well as the Firearms Act, 2004.
The case is expected to proceed with full trial proceedings beginning in early March.
