Court fixes May 26 for Malami, son’s terrorism trial

By Osordi Ayomide

The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed May 26 for the Department of State Services (DSS) to commence trial in the alleged terrorism case against former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and his son, Abdulaziz.

At the resumed hearing, counsel to the DSS, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), informed the court that an amended five-count charge had been filed, replacing the earlier one. The prosecution subsequently withdrew the initial charge and requested that the fresh charges be read to the defendants.

Defence counsel, Shaibu Aruwa (SAN), confirmed receipt of the amended charge and raised no objection to the re-arraignment.

Following the reading of the new charges, Malami and his son pleaded not guilty.

The duo are accused of, in December 2025, allegedly conspiring to commit acts of terrorism, including unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition without licence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.

After the plea, the prosecution sought a trial date, while the defence urged the court to allow the defendants to continue on the bail earlier granted.

With no objection from the prosecution, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik upheld the existing bail conditions and adjourned the matter to May 26 and June 15 for trial.

The charges, filed under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Firearms Act, include alleged possession of a Sturm Magnum firearm and live ammunition without lawful authorisation.