EFCC Detains Former AGF Abubakar Malami Over Alleged Terrorism Financing

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), over allegations connected to terrorism financing, money laundering and suspicious financial transactions.

Malami is being questioned by EFCC investigators over multiple alleged offences, including the operation of numerous bank accounts, alleged misuse of public resources, and possible links to terrorism-financing networks. The agency says the investigation covers about 18 suspected offences.

According to reports, Malami is still in EFCC custody after failing to meet his bail conditions.

Investigators are focusing on:

• Several bank accounts linked to Malami — some sources indicate up to 46 accounts are being traced.

• Questions surrounding investments of approximately ₦10 billion in Kebbi State.

• The management of funds recovered from foreign jurisdictions, including Abacha-era loot from Switzerland and Jersey.

EFCC sources say some assets may be seized or frozen while investigations continue.

Enforcement officials say part of the ongoing probe includes alleged links to financial channels that may have been used to support terrorism activities.

The EFCC has not released full details publicly, stating that more information will emerge after the interrogation and financial tracing exercises.

Malami has denied all allegations, describing them as “misleading, politically motivated and without evidence.”

He stated that, during his tenure as Minister of Justice, he actually strengthened Nigeria’s legal framework against money laundering and terrorism financing — citing the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, as well as support toward establishing the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

The detention marks one of the highest-profile corruption and terrorism-financing investigations involving a former Minister of Justice in the country. Analysts say the outcome could have major political and legal consequences, depending on the evidence presented.

If the allegations are proven, the case could expand to include other officials involved in public funds and security operations. If disproven, it may raise questions about transparency, political rivalry, and the use of anti-corruption measures in government.