Charges Filed Against Former Attorney General and Son for Terrorism
A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled proceedings for the Department of State Services (DSS) to initiate terrorism charges against Mr. Abubakar Malami, the former Attorney General of the Federation, and his son, Abdulaziz. This decision was announced on May 26.
Amended Charges Presented
During the court session, Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, representing the DSS, informed the court that an amended charge sheet had been filed to replace the previous version under which the defendants were initially arraigned. Kehinde then requested that the earlier charges be withdrawn and the new ones presented for the defendants to enter a fresh plea.
Defendants Acknowledge New Charges
The defense attorney, Mr. Shaib Arwa, SAN, confirmed that the amended complaint had been delivered to Malami and his son. He agreed to proceed with reading the new charges to them in court.
Allegations of Firearm Possession and Terrorism Preparation
Malami and his son are accused of unlawfully possessing a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, along with live and spent ammunition, in December 2025. The prosecution alleges that they were preparing to commit acts of terrorism during this period.
Plea and Trial Date Set
Upon the reading of the charges, both defendants entered a plea of not guilty. Kehinde subsequently requested a date for the trial. Although Arwa did not oppose the scheduling, he urged the court to allow the defendants to remain on bail under the previously granted conditions.
Bail Conditions Affirmed by the Court
Judge Joyce Abdulmalik agreed to continue the bail terms, noting that the defendants had met the conditions established on February 27. The judge then adjourned the proceedings, setting the next court dates for May 26 and June 15.
Specifics of the Amended Charges
The amended charges against Abubakar Malami and Abdulaziz Malami include multiple counts related to illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, violations of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, as well as breaches of the Firearms Act. Each count details their alleged actions in December 2025, within the jurisdiction of the Honorable Court, relating to possession without a license and preparation for terrorism.
