The Department of State Services (DSS) has taken former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mallam Abubakar Malami (SAN), into custody.
The arrest followed the discovery of arms and ammunition at his residence in Binin Kebbi. Malami is being questioned over allegations of terror financing.
Reports suggest he may have been collaborating with foreign interests seeking to destabilize Nigeria. Another former minister, reportedly working with Malami, has also been placed on a watch list. Investigations indicate the collaborator allegedly established a base outside Nigeria to plan attacks against the country.
According to sources, Malami was apprehended outside the Kuje Correctional Facility in Abuja after finalizing bail terms related to prior economic and financial crimes. He had been facing trial by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for an alleged N8 billion fraud. Justice Emeka Nwite had granted him and his son bail on January 7.
Earlier reports indicated that EFCC operatives discovered the arms at Malami’s residence during financial crime investigations and handed them over to the DSS. For nearly two weeks, the DSS reportedly maintained surveillance around Kuje prison to secure his arrest.
Officials said Malami delayed fulfilling his bail obligations, likely anticipating his arrest.
A DSS spokesperson explained: “Yes, DSS operatives have arrested Malami. Several petitions allege terrorism financing. Terrorism and its financing are serious global offenses.
“When Malami served as Attorney-General, he pledged that no one linked to terrorism would be shielded by the government. Similarly, current authorities will not ignore credible allegations against any individual, regardless of position.
“In Nigeria, the DSS has the primary responsibility to investigate such claims, and inter-agency cooperation ensures smooth handling of sensitive cases.”
A senior intelligence official added that Malami and his alleged collaborator would be interrogated. The former minister collaborator has reportedly refused to return from his base abroad. Authorities may seek his repatriation through the courts if necessary, noting that he is currently in a country with strict anti-terrorism laws.
