The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday granted bail to the immediate past Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, his son, Abdulaziz, and his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe, in a total sum of N1.5 billion.
Justice Emeka Nwite, who delivered the ruling, set Malami’s bail at N1 billion, while his wife was granted bail of N500 million. Each defendant must produce two sureties who own landed property in the Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarinpa areas of the Federal Capital Territory. The court further directed that the defendants submit title documents for verification and surrender their international passports. The sureties are also required to provide two recent passport photographs and depose to affidavits of means.
The court warned that the defendants must not leave the country without prior approval and will remain in custody until all bail conditions are fully met. The matter was adjourned until February 17, 2026, for trial.
Malami, who served as Attorney-General from November 2015 to May 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, faces 16 counts of money laundering. He was arraigned alongside his son and wife. Hajia Bashir Asabe, identified as an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, is accused of allegedly using the company to launder proceeds from unlawful activities through property transactions.
The bail marks a significant development in the high-profile case, which has drawn national attention due to Malami’s role as the country’s former chief law officer. Legal experts note that the stringent bail conditions reflect the seriousness of the allegations while allowing the defendants to prepare for trial under supervision.
The outcome is being closely monitored by stakeholders and the public, as the case highlights ongoing efforts to address financial crimes and ensure accountability in Nigeria’s public and private sectors.
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