Trial of Former Attorney General Continues Amid Allegations of Money Laundering
The trial of Abubakar Malami, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, resumed on Tuesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Malami faces allegations involving a money laundering scheme worth N8.7 billion, with prosecution witnesses providing detailed accounts of significant transactions associated with one of the case’s key figures.
Key Testimony from Banking Compliance Officer
Munawara Salisu Anas, a compliance officer at Jay’s Bank, took the stand as the fifth prosecution witness in the case involving Malami, his wife Hajia Bashir Asabeh, and their son Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami. The three defendants are charged with 16 counts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly concealing the illicit origins of assets exceeding 8.7 billion naira across Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano states.
Proceedings Under New Jurisdictional Oversight
The trial is presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who took over following the dismissal of Justice Obiola Egwatu. During the proceedings, guided by Prosecution Counsel Mr. Jibrin Oktepa (SAN), Anas detailed her responsibilities, which include collaborating with law enforcement, particularly the EFCC, regarding financial investigations and regulatory compliance.
Document Requests and Legal Objections
Anas confirmed receiving formal requests from the EFCC during her tenure and identified a letter asking for documents related to a specific account. When the prosecution sought to introduce a letter dated February 4, 2026, addressed to the EFCC Executive Chairman, defense attorney Adedayo Adedeji (SAN) objected. However, the judge decided to admit the documents into evidence, establishing them as Exhibit E Series.
Financial Details Uncovered in Court
Reviewing Alkausar Firm’s account records, Anas highlighted several transactions. Notably, on June 13, 2018, the account received a cash deposit of N1 million from Hassan Aliyu, followed by a N2.25 million deposit from Aliyu Mohammed on June 20, 2018. On December 7, 2018, the account registered multiple transfers from Karam Wahid Global Concepts, including four inflows of N10 million each and an additional N8 million on the same day.
Significant Transactions and Account Flows
The witness then disclosed a N45.5 million direct debit to Donarib Global Nigeria Limited on December 18, 2018. Continuing with her testimony, she explained that on July 13 and July 22, 2020, the account recorded two separate inflows of N26.25 million from Al Afiya Energy Limited. Moreover, on July 24, 2020, significant debit transfers were made, including N50 million to Sahad Stores Limited and N1 million to Alphagai Jewelry Nigeria Limited.
Monitoring of Suspicious Transactions
Testifying during cross-examination, Anas was asked about her awareness of the purposes behind the account’s inflows and outflows. She confirmed her knowledge, stating, “Yes, we know because we monitor and report suspicious transactions to the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, NFIU.” After her testimony, she was released without further examination from the prosecution.
Next Steps in the Trial
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the trial until July 17, at which point proceedings will continue as the case develops further. The outcome remains significant not only for the defendants but also for the broader implications of financial governance and accountability in Nigeria.
