EFCC Files 16-Count Money Laundering Charges Against Ex-Attorney-General Abubakar Malami, Son, Others

EFCC Files 16-Count Money Laundering Charges Against Ex-Attorney-General Abubakar Malami, Son, Others

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a 16-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering against former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), his son Abdulaziz Malami, and an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, Hajia Bashir Asabe.

According to court filings, the anti-graft agency accused the defendants of conspiring to launder large sums of money through complex financial transactions and property acquisitions, allegedly in violation of Nigeria’s anti-money laundering laws. The charges were filed before a Federal High Court, marking one of the most high-profile prosecutions involving a former chief law officer of the federation.

The EFCC alleged that the defendants used corporate entities and proxies to conceal the origins of funds suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities. Investigators claimed that the transactions involved cash transfers, payments through third parties, and investments in real estate assets allegedly linked to Rahamaniyya Properties Limited.

While details of the alleged sums and specific transactions are expected to be fully outlined during court proceedings, the commission maintained that its investigation uncovered sufficient evidence to warrant prosecution. The EFCC emphasized that the charges were a result of painstaking investigations and financial intelligence analysis carried out in line with due process.

Abubakar Malami served as Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice from 2015 to 2023, a period during which he was one of the most influential figures in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. His tenure was often marked by public debates over high-profile corruption cases, asset recoveries, and legal interpretations of executive powers.

As of the time of filing this report, neither Malami nor his co-defendants had been convicted, as the charges remain allegations before the court. Legal representatives for the defendants are expected to enter pleas on their behalf and challenge the charges when the matter comes up for arraignment.

The EFCC reiterated its commitment to pursuing corruption cases without fear or favor, regardless of the status or former position of those involved. The commission stated that the case underscores its resolve to strengthen accountability and transparency in public life.

The development is expected to generate significant public and political reactions, as Nigerians closely watch how the judiciary handles a case involving a former Attorney-General, once entrusted with upholding the rule of law.