The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the alleged ₦8.7 billion money laundering case involving former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), until June 23, 2026.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Malami, alongside his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe, and his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, on a 16-count charge. The charges include conspiracy, money laundering, concealment of proceeds of unlawful activities, and related financial crimes under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
According to the anti-graft agency, the alleged offences involve approximately ₦8.7 billion, making it one of the most significant corruption cases currently before the courts.
At the latest hearing, proceedings did not move into substantive arguments, as the court fixed June 23 for the continuation of the trial. This means the case remains active, with no verdict yet delivered.
Why This Case Matters
As Nigeria prepares for the political contests leading up to the 2027 general elections, high-profile corruption prosecutions continue to attract nationwide attention. Many Nigerians see such cases as a test of whether anti-corruption institutions can investigate and prosecute politically influential figures without interference.
Supporters of the EFCC argue that the prosecution demonstrates accountability regardless of status, while critics maintain that corruption cases involving prominent politicians often take years before reaching a final conclusion.
The adjournment means Nigerians will have to wait until late June before the court resumes hearing the matter.
The outcome of this case is expected to remain closely watched because of Malami’s former role as the country’s chief law officer and the scale of the alleged financial offences.
