ABUJA, Jan 9 (AGCNewsNet) – Nigeria’s Federal High Court on Wednesday granted bail to former Attorney General and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami ahead of his trial on money laundering charges.

Malami, who served as the country’s chief law officer under former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2023, is standing trial alongside his wife, Hajia Asabe Bashir, and his son over alleged financial crimes.

Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accuses the trio of stealing and laundering public funds amounting to 8.7 billion naira (about $6 million). Malami was arraigned last month on 16 counts of money laundering and has been in custody in Abuja since December 30. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

In his ruling, Justice Emeka Nwite said the court considered whether the defendants would make themselves available for trial and avoid interfering with witnesses. Citing the “interest of justice,” the judge granted bail to each defendant in the sum of 500 million naira (about $350,000).

As part of the bail conditions, Malami, his wife and son are required to surrender their travel documents and are barred from leaving Nigeria without prior approval of the court.

Justice Nwite adjourned the case until February 17 for the commencement of trial.

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