Malami terrorism charge dropped by the Federal Government during proceedings at a Federal High Court in Abuja, where prosecutors withdrew earlier allegations and filed an amended charge.
The case now centres on alleged illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz, pleaded not guilty to the new charges. The court adjourned the matter for trial.
Malami terrorism charge dropped follows earlier proceedings initiated by the Department of State Services in February 2026. The former justice minister and his son were arraigned on charges linked to terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms.
Prosecutors had alleged that Malami failed to act on case files involving suspected terrorism financiers while in office. The charges were filed under provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The case forms part of broader legal scrutiny involving former public officials. It also reflects ongoing enforcement of laws relating to national security and financial crimes. Malami terrorism charge dropped was confirmed when prosecution counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, informed the court of an amendment to the charge.
He applied to substitute the earlier terrorism-related counts with a five-count charge focusing on alleged illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
According to the prosecution, arms and live cartridges were recovered from the defendants’ residence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State. Following the amendment, Malami and his son entered fresh pleas of not guilty to the new charges.
Defence counsel, Shuaibu Arua, SAN, did not oppose the amendment of the charge.
He, however, urged the court to allow the defendants to retain the bail earlier granted.
The court, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, ruled that existing bail conditions granted on February 27 would remain in effect.
The judge subsequently fixed May 26 and June 15 for trial. Court records show that the defendants were initially accused of unlawful possession of firearms alongside terrorism-related allegations.
Malami terrorism charge dropped highlights procedural developments within Nigeria’s criminal justice system. It reflects the ability of prosecutors to amend charges based on case review and legal strategy.
The development also underscores the role of the judiciary in ensuring due process.
Amendment of charges may influence the direction and scope of ongoing trials.
The case continues to draw public attention due to Malami’s previous role in government.
It also relates to broader issues of accountability and rule of law.
