The Department of State Services (DSS) has enlisted the services of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Akinlolu Kehinde, to lead the prosecution of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz Malami, in an ongoing terrorism-related trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The case came up for hearing on Tuesday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, where the newly appointed prosecutor informed the court that he had only recently received instructions from the DSS to take over the matter. According to Kehinde, he needed additional time to review the case files and consult with witnesses involved in the prosecution.
He told the court that the directive to lead the prosecution was given to him just a day earlier, making it necessary to prepare adequately before the full trial begins. Counsel to the defendants, Shuaibu Arua, SAN, did not oppose the request for more time.
Following the application, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the proceedings until April 15 and 16, 2026, to allow the prosecution to properly organize its case.
Malami and his son are facing a five-count charge filed by the DSS, bordering on alleged terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. The security agency alleged that while serving as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Malami failed to prosecute individuals suspected of financing terrorist activities despite receiving their case files.
- Tragedy in Kogi: Police Corporal Allegedly Kills Female Colleague, Takes Own Life After Reported Relationship Crisis
A tragic shooting incident involving two serving police officers has… - Tottenham Stun Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as Palmer Sees Red and Maddison Suffers Fresh Injury Blow
Tottenham Hotspur delivered a statement victory over London rivals Chelsea…
The charges also accuse the former minister and his son of illegally keeping firearms and ammunition at their residence in Gesse Phase II area of Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area in Kebbi State without proper authorization.
The offences cited in the charge are said to be punishable under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, as well as the Firearms Act, 2004.
Both defendants have previously pleaded not guilty to the allegations, and the case has continued to draw public attention due to Malami’s prominent role as Nigeria’s chief law officer during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Federal High Court is expected to resume hearings in mid-April as the prosecution prepares to present its witnesses and evidence.
