DSS arraigns ex-AGF Malami, son over alleged terrorism financing, illegal arms possession

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz Malami, on a five-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism financing, aiding and abetting terrorism, and unlawful possession of firearms.

The duo were brought before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, where they pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Malami is specifically accused in the first count of allegedly abetting terrorism financing by failing to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers whose case files were reportedly submitted to his office during his tenure as AGF.

Both father and son are jointly charged in counts two to five, which relate to alleged illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

During proceedings, prosecuting counsel, Dr. C.S. Eze, urged the court to remand the defendants in DSS custody pending the commencement of trial. However, defence counsel, S.A. Alua (SAN), made an oral application for bail. Justice Abdulmalik declined the request, noting that bail applications must be formally submitted in writing, as required by the court.

The matter was subsequently adjourned to February 20 for the hearing of the bail application and possible commencement of trial.

According to the charge sheet, the defendants allegedly possessed, without a licence, a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, 16 live Redstar AAA cartridges, and 27 expended cartridges at their residence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.

The prosecution further claims that the alleged possession constituted preparation for acts of terrorism, in violation of provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, as well as the Firearms Act, 2004.

The DSS maintains that the offences fall within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.