A Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, granted bail to former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), his wife Bashir Asabe, and their son Abdulaziz Malami, in the ongoing fraud and money-laundering case instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Emeka Nwite, in his ruling, admitted the three defendants to bail in the sum of ₦500 million each, with two responsible sureties in like sum.
The court ordered that the sureties must own verifiable landed property within the Federal Capital Territory, with all title documents deposited at the court registry.
The defendants were also directed to surrender their international passports pending the determination of the case.
Malami, his wife and son were arraigned on December 30, 2025, on a 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy and money laundering, following allegations that they concealed, retained and converted proceeds of unlawful activities amounting to about ₦8.7 billion.
The alleged offences were said to have been carried out through multiple bank accounts, corporate entities and the acquisition of high-value properties in Abuja and other locations.
All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges at their arraignment and were subsequently remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the hearing and determination of their bail applications.
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During arguments, defence counsel urged the court to grant bail, describing the offences as bailable and insisting that the defendants were not flight risks.
The EFCC opposed the application, citing the seriousness of the allegations, the scale of the alleged financial transactions and the need to safeguard the integrity of the trial.
In granting bail, Justice Nwite warned all parties and counsel against any form of interference or improper communication with the court, stressing that the proceedings would be conducted strictly in accordance with the law.
The case has been adjourned for the commencement of trial, as the prosecution is expected to begin calling witnesses to substantiate the charges.