Abubakar Malami granted N200m bail with strict conditions pending trial over N8.7 billion money laundering charges

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja has granted former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN, bail in the sum of N200 million pending trial over N8.7 billion money laundering charges.

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The ruling was delivered on Friday.

Malami and two co-defendants are required to provide two sureties each in the same sum.

Justice Abdulmalik stipulated that the sureties must own developed landed properties in either Maitama or Asokoro, with documentation verified by the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Court.

The sureties must also swear affidavits of means.

The court further directed that the defendants deposit their travel documents and two recent passport photographs.

They are prohibited from leaving the country without court permission.

Meanwhile, Malami and his son will remain in Kuje Prison, while his wife will be held in Suleja Prison pending the perfection of bail conditions.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission filed a 16-count charge against Malami, his son, and his wife.

Trial commencement has been scheduled for March 16.

The bail application was argued by Joseph Daudu, SAN, representing the defendants, while Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, appearing for the EFCC, did not oppose the request.

Justice Emeka Nwite, also of the Federal High Court, had previously admitted Malami to N500 million bail during a vacation sitting, but the matter restarted under Justice Abdulmalik.

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Supporters and associates of the former Minister of Justice were reported to be mobilising to meet the bail conditions following the ruling.