The case involving the former Attorney General of the Federation
(AGF), Abubakar Malami (SAN), has taken a massive turn this week. It is currently one of the biggest legal and political stories in the country.
Here is a breakdown of the latest developments as of January 8, 2026:
1. The Bail Ruling (January 7, 2026)
Yesterday, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail to Malami, his wife (Hajia Bashir Asabe), and his son (Abdulaziz Malami).
- The Amount: Each was granted bail in the sum of ₦500 million (though some reports mention ₦1 billion for Malami specifically).
- The Conditions: They must provide two sureties each who own landed property in high-end areas of Abuja (Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarimpa)
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- Passports: All three defendants had to surrender their international passports to the court and are barred from traveling outside Nigeria.
- Current Location: Until they "perfect" (meet) these bail conditions, they are to remain at the Kuje Correctional Centre
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2. The Massive Asset Seizure (₦213 Billion)
In a separate but related ruling on January 6, 2026, the court ordered the interim forfeiture of 57 properties linked to Malami and his sons.
- Total Value: The EFCC estimates these properties are worth approximately ₦213.2 billion.
- What was seized? The list includes luxury duplexes in Maitama, hotels, schools, commercial plazas, and filling stations across Abuja, Kano, Kebbi, and Kaduna.
- The "Amazon Street" House: One specific property highlighted was a luxury duplex on Amazon Street, Maitama, allegedly bought for ₦500 million and renovated to a value of nearly ₦6 billion.
3. The Specific Charges (N8.7 Billion Trial)
The Malami family is facing a 16-count charge primarily focused on money laundering Key allegations include:
- Metropolitan Auto Tech Ltd: Using this company to conceal over ₦1 billion in a Sterling Bank account between 2022 and 2025.
- Meethaq Hotels Ltd: Allegedly laundering ₦1.04 billion through this company's accounts.
- Proxies: Using various corporate fronts to purchase high-value real estate while Malami was still serving as the Minister of Justice.
What Happens Next?
- Trial Date: The main trial is scheduled to begin on February 17, 2026.
- Show Cause: Anyone claiming ownership of the 57 seized properties has 14 days to appear in court and explain why the government shouldn't take them permanently.



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