Abubakar Malami, former attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, has accused the Department of State Services of denying him access to his family and legal team.
Malami, who is standing trial alongside his son and wife over allegations of money laundering, was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja. On January 7, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted him bail in the sum of N500 million.
Shortly after his release on Monday, DSS operatives reportedly re-arrested Malami at the front of Kuje prison. The re-arrest followed claims of arms allegedly discovered at his residence.
In a statement on Wednesday, Mohammed Doka, media aide to Malami, described the reports of arms at the former minister’s residence as “false, unsubstantiated and unsupported by any official record.” Doka said no such discovery had been formally communicated to Malami’s family or legal representatives, and condemned the “prolonged isolation” imposed by the DSS as raising legitimate concerns regarding his safety, welfare and constitutionally guaranteed rights.
“We categorically reject claims that any cache of arms or ammunition was discovered in any residence linked to Abubakar Malami, SAN,” the statement read. “These claims are false, unsubstantiated and unsupported by any official record, judicial document or lawful disclosure. No such discovery has been formally communicated to his family or legal representatives.
“We also firmly deny allegations or insinuations linking Abubakar Malami, SAN, to terrorism, terrorism financing or related activities. Such claims are advanced without naming a single individual, organisation, transaction, date or piece of verifiable evidence, rendering them speculative and irresponsible.
“Since his arrest on Monday by the DSS, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has been denied access to his family, legal team and associates. This prolonged isolation raises legitimate concerns regarding his safety, welfare and constitutionally guaranteed rights, including access to legal counsel and family contact.
“We further express concern over the undue hardship and emotional strain placed on his family and staff as a result of sensational reporting and unverified narratives.
“It is important to note that Abubakar Malami, SAN, is a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and has publicly declared his intention to contest the Kebbi State governorship election in 2027. Against this background, the political undertones now surrounding this matter cannot be ignored. Legal processes must remain insulated from political considerations.”
