Fresh Twist in Malami Trial: FCT High Court Revokes Earlier Bail, Orders Remand; Separate Court Grants ₦200m Bail in Terrorism Case
A fresh development unfolded on Friday in the trial of former Attorney‑General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, as the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that his earlier bail no longer subsists following reassignment of his case.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik held that once a matter commences afresh before a new court, all prior proceedings — including bail previously granted by Justice Emeka Nwite — are extinguished in law, requiring a fresh bail application.
At the resumed hearing, the prosecution, led by J.S. Okutepa, applied for the defendants’ pleas to be taken on the amended 16‑count charge. Malami, his son Abdulaziz, and his wife Asabe pleaded not guilty. The prosecution thereafter urged the court to fix a trial date.
Defence counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), argued that the earlier bail conditions should subsist, contending that the Federal High Court is one court. The prosecution, however, maintained that the new court retained discretion to impose fresh conditions.
Justice Abdulmalik declined an oral bail application, directing the defence to file a formal application to be served on the prosecution. She adjourned the matter to March 6 for hearing of the bail application and commencement of trial, ordering Malami and his son remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre and his wife at Suleja Correctional Centre.
In a separate case, the same court admitted Malami and Abdulaziz to ₦200 million bail each on charges of terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms. Justice Abdulmalik imposed stringent conditions, including two sureties in like sum, one of whom must own developed property in Maitama or Asokoro and deposit the title deed with the court. The defendants were also directed to surrender their passports and photographs.
The Department of State Services arraigned Malami and his son on a five‑count charge under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and the Firearms Act, 2004. They pleaded not guilty. The matter was adjourned to March 4 for trial.
