Malami DSS detention may be extended as security operatives seek a court order to complete complex terrorism and corruption investigations
The Department of State Services is seeking a court order to prolong the detention of Abubakar Malami, SAN, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, as investigations into alleged terrorism financing and corruption deepen.
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Multiple security sources confirmed that the Malami DSS detention may last for months, citing the sensitive and complex nature of the ongoing probe.
Malami was taken into DSS custody on Monday, moments after he perfected his bail and was released from the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja, where he had been held since early December over allegations filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Security sources said the DSS is preparing to approach a court to authorise continued detention, arguing that the scope of the investigation requires extended questioning and inter-agency cooperation.
The former AGF was initially arrested by the EFCC over allegations that he conspired with his wife, Asabe, and their son to conceal proceeds of unlawful activities valued at about N8.7bn.
The anti-graft agency alleged that the offences involved multiple corporate entities, bank accounts and high-value real estate transactions in Abuja and other locations.
Malami, his wife and son were arraigned on December 29, 2025, before a Federal High Court in Abuja on 16 counts bordering on money laundering and conspiracy. All three defendants pleaded not guilty.
Before the arraignment, Malami had remained in custody after failing to meet earlier bail conditions.
On December 18, a Federal Capital Territory High Court, presided over by Justice Babangida Hassan, ruled that his detention was lawful.
On January 7, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court granted Malami, his wife and son bail in the sum of N500m each, with stringent conditions.
The court ordered each defendant to produce two sureties with verifiable landed property in Asokoro, Maitama or Gwarimpa, and to deposit title documents for verification.
Twelve days after securing the bail requirements, Malami was leaving the correctional facility when DSS operatives intercepted and detained him.
Sources said the renewed interrogation centres on Malami’s handling of intelligence related to terrorism financing, including a list of Nigerian terror financiers released by the United Arab Emirates in 2021.
UAE authorities had named six Nigerians as alleged financiers of Boko Haram under Cabinet Resolution No. 83 of 2021, a disclosure that triggered national controversy and raised questions about domestic follow-up on foreign intelligence.
Investigators are also examining allegations relating to an arms cache reportedly found at Malami’s residence in Kebbi State, alongside several petitions accusing him of terrorism financing.
Security officials said terrorism-related allegations fall squarely within the DSS mandate, stressing that no individual, regardless of status, is immune from investigation.
Political analysts said the case reflects a broader post-tenure reckoning for former senior officials of the Muhammadu Buhari administration, many of whom exercised vast influence during their time in office.
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As the DSS intensifies its probe, sources maintained that Malami may not regain his freedom soon, pending the outcome of court proceedings and the conclusion of investigations.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
