DSS Moves to Keep Ex-AGF Malami in Custody Over Terror Financing, Arms Cache Allegations

The Department of State Services (DSS) has intensified its probe of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), by seeking a court order to extend his detention over allegations bordering on terrorism financing and other serious security-related offences.

Sources familiar with the investigation disclosed that the secret police are pushing for a remand order, arguing that the scope and complexity of the case cannot be concluded within the initial detention period. Malami, who served as Nigeria’s chief law officer from 2015 to 2023 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, is reportedly being questioned over his handling of terrorism-related intelligence during his tenure.

Central to the probe is the controversial list of alleged terror financiers released by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2021, which named six Nigerians accused of links to the Boko Haram insurgent group. Investigators are also examining Malami’s role in the government’s response to the revelations, amid public criticism over the lack of visible prosecutions at the time.

In addition, the DSS is questioning Malami over multiple petitions accusing him of terrorism financing, as well as an arms cache allegedly discovered at his residence in Kebbi State. Security sources insist the investigation is far-reaching and could take weeks to unravel.

Malami’s detention followed days of tension after his bail in a separate N8.7 billion money laundering case was stalled, despite meeting bail conditions. His eventual surrender to the DSS came amid a heavy security presence around the Kuje Correctional Facility, a move authorities described as necessary to prevent interference with ongoing investigations.

Political observers say the case reflects a broader trend of post-office scrutiny of senior officials who held powerful positions during the Buhari era, raising fresh questions about accountability and transparency at the highest levels of government.