A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja has ruled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) can lawfully continue to detain former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN).
The decision was delivered on Thursday by Justice Babangida Hassan, who dismissed an application filed by Malami seeking bail and challenging the legality of his detention by the anti-graft agency.
In a statement released on Friday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed that the ruling was given on December 18, 2025.
Malami, through his lawyer Suliaman Hassan (SAN), had asked the court to grant him bail, arguing that his detention during an ongoing investigation was unlawful. However, the EFCC opposed the application, insisting that the former minister was being held based on a valid remand order issued earlier by another FCT High Court.
EFCC counsel J. S. Okutepa (SAN) told the court that the remand order was granted by Justice S. C. Oriji, making Malami’s detention legal and in line with existing court directives.
In his ruling, Justice Hassan cited Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, noting that the law permits detention under a court-issued remand order.
He added that granting Malami’s request would amount to sitting in judgment over a decision made by a court of equal jurisdiction, which the court has no authority to do.
Malami has been in EFCC custody since December 8, after he reportedly failed to meet the bail conditions set by the commission.
Earlier reports indicated that the former minister is being investigated over 18 alleged offences, including abuse of office and terrorism financing. The EFCC also confirmed that it carried out searches on Malami’s residences and offices in Abuja and Kebbi State.
Malami, however, has accused the EFCC of bias and unfair handling of his case.
Advertisement
