Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and his son appeared in court on Tuesday to continue their trial over an alleged N8.7 billion money-laundering case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).The resumed hearing marks another phase in the high-profile proceedings, which have continued to attract public attention due to Malami’s prominence in Nigeria’s legal and political circles.
The former minister and his son are facing multiple counts bordering on alleged movement and handling of funds said by the EFCC to be proceeds of financial crimes. Both defendants have denied the allegations and maintained their innocence.
At Tuesday’s sitting, counsel for the EFCC and the defence were present as the court considered issues relating to the ongoing trial. The prosecution continued to present documentary evidence and witness testimony to establish its case, while the defence challenged the admissibility and merit of the evidence, insisting that the charges were unfounded.
The case is one of the most closely watched corruption trials involving a former senior government official. Malami served as Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice for eight years under former President Muhammadu Buhari, where he supervised the country’s legal affairs and played a central role in government policy and legal advisory functions.
Court proceedings drew lawyers, journalists and observers monitoring developments in the matter. While the day’s hearing largely centred on legal arguments and review of evidence already before the court, the trial continues to test the EFCC’s resolve in prosecuting corruption-related cases involving politically exposed persons.
The anti-graft agency had earlier filed multiple charges alleging that the defendants were involved in transactions totalling N8.7 billion. Prosecutors argue that the funds were unlawfully handled in breach of Nigeria’s money laundering laws, while the defendants have continued to reject the allegations.
The court adjourned the matter for further hearing. Both sides are expected to continue their arguments when proceedings resume. The defendants remain presumed innocent until the conclusion of the trial.
