02
Jan
Jan
FORMER AGF MALAMI, FAMILY MEMBERS REMAIN IN CUSTODY AS COURT DEFERS BAIL RULING TO JANUARY 7
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CapitalTimesNews / 1 month
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The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned its ruling on the bail applications of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and his wife Asabe Bashir to January 7, 2024. Justice Emeka Nwite ordered that the defendants remain in prison custody until that date. The order followed arguments from both prosecution and defense counsels during the ongoing trial. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has brought a 16-count charge against the trio, alleging concealment of illicit funds worth ₦1.014 billion and unlawful acquisition of assets valued at several billions of naira. All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Defense counsel Joseph Daudu (SAN) argued strongly for bail, stating, “The EFCC had previously admitted them to administrative bail and should not oppose judicial bail.” However, EFCC’s counsel, Ekele Iheanacho (SAN), opposed the application, insisting it lacked merit. Justice Emeka Nwite explained the reason for the adjournment, noting, “As a vacation judge with multiple rulings pending, I will deliver my decision on January 7.” Until the ruling, Abubakar Malami and his son will remain detained at the Kuje Correctional Centre, while Asabe Bashir is held at the Suleja Correctional Centre.