Ex-Minister Saleh Mamman’s Trial Hits Snag as Court Rebukes Lawyer for “Time-Wasting Antics”

The Federal High Court in Abuja slammed former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman’s lawyer, Temitayo Sonuyi, SAN, for attempting to delay proceedings in a N31 billion fraud trial. Mamman and seven others face nine-count charges including conspiracy, false pretence, and intent to defraud. Justice Maryann Anenih criticized the defense for procedural delays, insisting the trial must proceed while jurisdiction issues are addressed separately. The case has been adjourned to February and March 2026 for continuation.
#SalehMamman #N31BillionFraud #CourtTrial

Alleged N31 Billion Fraud: Court Rebukes Saleh Mamman’s Counsel for “Time-Wasting” in Trial

The Federal High Court in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has accused the defence counsel of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, of engaging in “time-wasting antics” during the ongoing trial.

Justice Maryann Anenih made the remark while presiding over the case, which involves Mamman and seven others facing a nine-count charge of conspiracy, false pretence, and intent to defraud amounting to N31,070,541,349.64.

The trial continues amid heightened scrutiny as the court seeks to ensure proceedings are conducted efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

#SalehMamman #FraudTrial #N31Billion #JusticeInAction

Kano Court Denies Arrest of Ex-Gov Ganduje in Controversial Dry Port Case

Summary: Kano State High Court has refused the government’s bid to arrest former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje over the alleged mismanagement and private takeover of Dala Inland Dry Port. Ganduje, facing a 10-count charge including criminal conspiracy, misappropriation of ₦4.49 billion, and abuse of office alongside three co-defendants, was granted temporary relief as the court agreed to hear preliminary objections on service of court processes first. Justice Yusuf Ubale ruled that issuing a bench warrant now would be premature. Case adjourned to February 23.

#KanoPolitics #GandujeTrial #NigeriaNews

Malami Delays Bail as DSS Besiege Kuje Prison Over Terrorism Financing Probe – Inside the High-Stakes Showdown

Former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has reportedly slowed the processing of his bail following a heavy deployment of Department of State Services (DSS) operatives at the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Abuja. Sources indicate that over 50 DSS officers established a perimeter around the prison, arriving in a convoy of approximately six Toyota Hilux vans, amid fears that Malami could be immediately rearrested in connection with an ongoing terrorism financing investigation.

Malami, who was granted bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja in his N8.7 billion money laundering case, instructed his legal team to delay the release process, remaining in the VIP segregation cell of the prison, a section previously refurbished by former police intelligence chief Abba Kyari and known for housing high-profile detainees. His son, Abubakar Abdulaziz, and fourth wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe, remain at the facility, with Abdulaziz reportedly admitted to the prison clinic for observation after falling ill.

The EFCC had arraigned Malami, Asabe, and Abdulaziz on a 16-count charge involving conspiracy, laundering, and concealment of unlawful proceeds totaling ₦8,713,923,759.49 under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. While terrorism financing is not part of the formal charges, security sources link ongoing investigations to Malami and other high-profile figures regarding the flow of Abacha loot recovered from Switzerland and the UK.

Retired Army General Danjuma Ali-Keffi, former head of counter-terrorism Task Force Operation Service Wide (OSW), revealed that investigations into Boko Haram financiers exposed networks allegedly connected to senior military officers, top financial officials, and government figures, including Malami. Ali-Keffi claimed Malami interfered with these investigations by removing key prosecutors and influencing the release of certain suspects, actions that undermined anti-terrorism operations.

This unfolding situation underscores heightened tensions between Nigerian law enforcement agencies and high-profile figures, highlighting the complex interplay of money laundering, terrorism financing probes, and political influence. Authorities remain on high alert as Malami’s legal maneuvering continues amid nationwide scrutiny of his activities.

BURKINA FASO FOILS COUP ATTEMPT

Burkina Faso's Military junta announced that it had foiled what was described a sophisticated plot to assassinate its military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

Security Minister Mahamadou Sana revealed the details in a national television broadcast, stating that intelligence services intercepted the operation in its final stages.

He alleged that the plotters had planned to assassinate the head of state and then strike other key institutions, including civilian personalities, alleging that the conspiracy was funded from neighbouring country.

Sana said authorities uncovered a leaked video in which the plotters discussed their intentions, including assassinating Traoré either at close range or by planting explosives at his residence shortly after 11 p.m. local time on Saturday, January 3.

The conspirators allegedly planned to follow up by targeting other senior military and civilian figures, mobilizing soldiers and civilian supporters, and disabling the country's drone-launch base to prevent foreign intervention.
Sana added that the situation was under control and urging citizens "not to be misled, out of naivety, into dangerous schemes.

Don’t Approach Me To Bend The Law Judge Warns Lawyers In Ex-AGF Malami’s ₦8.7Billion Money Laundering Trial
January 7, 2026 – Abuja

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, issued a stern warning to lawyers and litigants involved in the high-profile trial of former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, his wife Hajia Bashir Asabe, and their son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami. The case, instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), concerns alleged money laundering involving over ₦8.7 billion.

Justice Nwite cautioned that any attempt to approach him for personal favours or undue influence would be resisted. “All judges are not the same. Irrespective of my familiarity with you, when I am dealing with any case, do not approach me. The law cannot be bent as far as this court is concerned,” he said, stressing that proper legal representation, not backdoor contacts, is the legitimate way for lawyers to serve clients. He further warned that attempts to compromise the court’s integrity or tarnish his name would be firmly dealt with, emphasizing, “I warned, I warned, and I warned!”

The EFCC accused Malami, his wife, and son of conspiring to procure, disguise, conceal, and launder proceeds of unlawful activities, contrary to the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. They face a 16-count charge involving conspiracy and multiple forms of money laundering.

Among the allegations, the EFCC claimed that between July 2022 and June 2025, Malami and his son used Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to conceal ₦1,014,848,500 lodged in a Sterling Bank account, funds allegedly known to be proceeds of unlawful activities. Another charge alleges that the trio conspired in September 2024 to disguise the origin of ₦1,049,173,926.13 paid through the Union Bank account of Meethaq Hotels Limited, Jabi. The agency also alleged that Malami and his son indirectly controlled ₦1,362,887,872.96 paid into the same company’s Union Bank savings account between November 2022 and October 2025.

Earlier, Justice Nwite granted the defendants bail of ₦500 million each, with two sureties each. The sureties were required to submit affidavits of means.

This trial has drawn attention not only because of the substantial sums involved but also due to Malami’s prominent former position as AGF and Minister of Justice, which amplified public scrutiny over corruption and the integrity of Nigeria’s judicial processes. Observers note the judge’s firm admonition reflects ongoing efforts to maintain judicial independence and prevent interference in politically sensitive cases.

Malami’s legal team is expected to proceed with formal defense submissions while adhering strictly to court procedure. The EFCC, meanwhile, continues its investigation into the flow and management of the alleged laundered funds, signaling a prolonged and closely monitored trial. The outcome is likely to influence public discourse on accountability for top government officials, money laundering enforcement, and the integrity of Nigeria’s anti-graft agencies.

Lawyer Deji Adeyanju Blasts Former AGF Abubakar Malami for Flouting Court Orders, Warns Against Arrogance in Power

Nigerian human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has criticized former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), accusing him of repeatedly disobeying court orders while holding office. Adeyanju described Malami’s actions as shameful and dangerous to democracy, highlighting that even as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, he ignored the rule of law.
Speaking on Tuesday, Adeyanju noted that Malami’s fall from influence after leaving office was a consequence of his disregard for legal procedures and accountability. He warned current leaders against arrogance and impunity, stressing that political authority is temporary and accountability is inevitable.
Malami, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, is currently facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged money laundering offenses totaling over ₦8.7 billion. He, alongside his wife and son, is being held at Kuje Correctional Centre pending a bail ruling in a 16-count charge of conspiracy, procuring, disguising, and laundering proceeds of unlawful activities under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The matter has drawn attention to the accountability of public officers in Nigeria and the consequences of ignoring judicial authority, with civil society and rights groups monitoring developments closely.

US Justice Department Softens Drug Trafficking Case Against Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Scales Back ‘Cartel de los Soles’ Claims in Revised Indictment

The United States Justice Department has quietly retreated from one of its most high-profile allegations against ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro—that he led a powerful international drug cartel known as the Cartel de los Soles. A newly released, revised indictment significantly reduces references to the group and no longer portrays it as a formal criminal organization or identifies Maduro as its leader.

Originally, a 2020 indictment during the first Trump administration depicted the Cartel de los Soles as a unified narcotics cartel headed by Maduro, accusing him of using cocaine trafficking as a “weapon” against the United States and of collaborating with Colombia’s FARC rebels. Those claims later formed the basis for escalated U.S. actions, including the Treasury Department’s 2025 designation of the cartel as a terrorist organization and a similar move by the State Department under Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

However, crime experts and Latin American analysts have long disputed the existence of the Cartel de los Soles as a structured organization, describing it instead as media slang for corrupt officials who profit from drug trafficking. The revised indictment reflects this view, recharacterizing the cartel as a “patronage system” and “culture of corruption” rather than a concrete criminal entity. The term now appears only twice, compared with more than 30 mentions in the original filing.

While prosecutors still accuse Maduro of participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy, they now allege that he protected and benefited from a corrupt network rather than commanding a formal cartel. Analysts, including Elizabeth Dickinson of the International Crisis Group, say the updated indictment aligns more closely with reality, though they question why earlier terrorism designations remain in place despite the lack of courtroom proof.

The shift has also raised political and legal questions about the justification for previous U.S. actions. Notably, the Cartel de los Soles has never been identified as a major trafficking organization in reports by the DEA or the United Nations. Despite the revisions, Rubio has continued to publicly describe the cartel as a functioning criminal group, insisting that Maduro remains its leader.

Overall, the development marks a significant recalibration of the U.S. government’s case against Maduro—undermining a central narrative used to justify sanctions and designations, while still maintaining accusations of involvement in drug trafficking and systemic corruption.

BBC Bars Journalists From Using ‘Kidnapped’ to Describe Nicolas Maduro’s Arrest by US Forces, Sparks Global Media Ethics Debate After Trump Backs Term

A controversy has erupted over the BBC’s editorial guidelines following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by United States forces. According to socialist commentator Owen Jones, BBC journalists were instructed through an internal memo not to describe the incident as a “kidnapping,” despite that term being used by Venezuelan officials and even accepted by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The memo, circulated by the BBC News Editor, advised reporters to use terms such as “captured”—attributed to the U.S. account of events—or “seized” in the corporation’s own reporting, while explicitly cautioning: “Avoid using ‘Kidnapped.’” Jones shared the directive publicly, triggering widespread debate about editorial independence, language framing, and media neutrality in covering sensitive international operations.

The backlash intensified after President Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, said he had no objection to describing Maduro’s detention as a kidnapping, responding: “It’s alright. It’s not a bad term.” Trump confirmed that Maduro had been taken into U.S. custody and transferred to New York, following what U.S. authorities called a surprise operation. Venezuela’s then–Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who has since been sworn in as interim president, had earlier labeled the action a “kidnapping.”

In court, Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine trafficking, and weapons-related offences. Maduro told the court he was “kidnapped” and “captured” from his Caracas residence, declaring himself a “prisoner of war.” The developments have intensified scrutiny of both U.S. actions in Venezuela and the BBC’s editorial choices, with critics arguing the language ban reflects political sensitivity, while defenders say it ensures accuracy and consistency.

The episode has reignited global debate over media ethics, word choice in conflict reporting, and the power of language in shaping public perception of international crises.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro Pleads Not Guilty in U.S. Court, Declares “I Am Still President” Amid Drug Trafficking and Weapons Charges

Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro has pleaded not guilty to multiple criminal charges during his first appearance in a New York courtroom, using the moment to reaffirm his claim to the presidency. Facing allegations of narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation, and illegal possession of weapons, Maduro rejected the accusations, insisting on his innocence and political legitimacy.

According to reports, the indictment includes four major counts, marking one of the most serious criminal cases ever brought against a sitting foreign leader in the United States. Outside the courthouse, supporters and protesters gathered, turning the proceedings into a political spectacle highlighting tensions over sovereignty, accountability, and international justice.

Maduro’s wife, Cilia Flores, who was apprehended alongside him, also entered a not guilty plea to similar drug trafficking and weapons charges. The case follows an announcement by U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who confirmed that both were indicted in the Southern District of New York. As the trial moves forward, the case is set to test the reach of U.S. law while deepening the global political controversy surrounding Venezuela’s embattled leadership.

Paris Court Convicts 10 People for Cyber-Harassing France’s First Lady Brigitte Macron With False Claims She Is Transgender, Hands Down Suspended Jail Sentences

A Paris court has convicted 10 individuals—eight men and two women—for cyber-harassing France’s First Lady, Brigitte Macron, by spreading false claims that she is a transgender woman. French media reported that the defendants received suspended prison sentences of up to eight months for their roles in circulating the allegations online.

The conspiracy theory falsely claimed that Brigitte Macron was born male under the name Jean-Michel Trogneux, which is actually the name of her older brother. The Macrons have faced years of online abuse, also fueled by criticism of their 24-year age difference, but have recently intensified legal action against such attacks.

The ruling comes as President Emmanuel Macron and his wife pursue a separate defamation case in the United States against right-wing podcaster Candace Owens over similar allegations. Speaking to TF1, Brigitte Macron said the harassment had been relentless, including identity tampering on official websites, and stressed that official documents such as birth certificates clearly prove her gender.

She said her legal fight is aimed not only at defending herself but also at setting an example for young people facing online harassment, warning that unchecked cyber abuse can have serious personal and societal consequences.

Court Denies Bail to Bauchi State Finance Commissioner Yakubu Adamu and Three Others Over Alleged Terrorism Financing, Money Laundering Charges

The Federal High Court in Abuja has denied bail to Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, and three co-defendants arraigned by the EFCC over alleged terrorism financing and money laundering. Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the ruling on January 5, 2026, remanding the accused at Kuje Correctional Centre pending trial.

The defendants, including Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed, face ten-count charges involving conspiracy, conversion of public funds, and alleged financing of terrorist activities. One of the counts alleges that Adamu received USD 6,950,000 in cash outside financial institutions, while another claims USD 2,300,000 was provided to support terrorist activities connected to Bello Bodejo.

All defendants pleaded “not guilty” to the charges. The EFCC has linked the offences to acts committed between January and May 2024, citing contraventions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Topics: #YakubuAdamu, #Bauchi State, #EFCC, #Terrorism Financing, #Money Laundering, Federal High Court, #Justice Emeka Nwite, Nigerian Legal System.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and Wife Captured by U.S., Flown to Manhattan Prison Pending Trial

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been captured by U.S. forces and flown to New York City, where they will be held in a federal prison in Manhattan pending trial on criminal charges.

The operation, involving both military and law enforcement components, took place in Caracas, Venezuela, early Saturday morning and included airstrikes and ground maneuvers. This marks the first time a sitting Latin American head of state has been removed and brought to the U.S. to face federal charges.

Maduro has long faced U.S. indictments for narco-terrorism conspiracy and drug trafficking, charges he denies. U.S. authorities confirmed the couple will be processed under federal law, highlighting that the action combines security enforcement with criminal prosecution.

Alleged Attempted Murder: Ekiti Court Remands Man Who Challenged Governor Oyebanji’s Candidature Over Armed Robbery, Conspiracy, And Weapons Charges

An Ekiti State Chief Magistrate Court has ordered the remand of Akogun Abayomi Olumide, also known as “Lustay,” in correctional custody over allegations of conspiracy to commit robbery, armed robbery, attempted murder, unlawful possession of offensive weapons, and malicious damage. The remand followed a police application pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Olumide’s arrest comes weeks after he filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja challenging the candidature of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji. Police allege that investigations linked him to violent attacks on several individuals, claims Olumide has strongly denied, insisting he is not a robber and had no involvement in political violence. The court granted the police request, ordering his detention at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre while investigations and legal review continue.

Former AGF Malami and two others to be remanded in Kuje

The Federal High Court Abuja Division has adjourned to the 7th of January, 2026 to rule on the bail application filed by former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN and two others.

Malami is standing trial alongside two others for alleged money laundering and illicit possession of assets valued at more than eight billion naira.

After hearing both parties the court adjourned the case to Wednesday next week to rule on the bail application.

Meanwhile, Justice Nwite has granted bail to the Bauchi State Finance Commissioner, Yakubu Adamu.

The defendant, along with one Ayab Agro Products Company, face charges of alleged conspiracy, and laundering of 4.65 Billion Naira.

He pleads not guilty to the charge.

The court granted him bail of five hundred million naira and two sureties, who must provide landed property in Gwarinpa, Maitama or Asokoro, Abuja.

The defendant is remain in Kuje Correctional custody till his bail is perfected.

The matter is adjourned to 23rd January, 2026 for continuation of trial.

EFCC and Nigerian Prison Officials Clash Over Security During Former AGF Abubakar Malami’s Court Appearance

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) reportedly clashed at the Federal High Court in Abuja over security responsibilities during the court appearance of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN.

The confrontation arose amid a dispute over which agency should control security at the court entrance. Journalists were subjected to clearance checks, and some were denied entry due to the courtroom reaching capacity.

Malami, along with his son and one of his wives, was arraigned on December 30 on a 16-count charge including alleged money laundering, unlawful asset acquisition, and conspiracy. The defendants pleaded not guilty, and the court ordered their remand at Kuje Correctional Centre pending a bail application hearing on January 2.

Malami served as Attorney-General from 2015 to 2023 under former President Buhari and was a key figure in the administration.

Bauchi Finance Commissioner Yakubu Adamu Granted N500 Million Bail Over Alleged N4.65 Billion Money Laundering

A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, who is facing trial for alleged money laundering involving N4.65 billion. Justice Emeka Nwite set bail at N500 million with two sureties of similar value, despite objections from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Adamu and his company, Ayab Agro Products, were arraigned on six-count charges relating to conspiracy and money laundering, including allegations that funds released for the supply of motorcycles to Bauchi State were misappropriated. The defendants pleaded not guilty.

The court ruled that the EFCC failed to show that Adamu would abscond or interfere with the trial. Bail conditions include owning landed properties in Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarimpa, submission of affidavits of means and verifiable property documents, and surrender of his international passport. He is barred from traveling abroad without prior court approval.

Pending the perfection of bail terms, Adamu remains at Kuje Correctional Centre. The trial is set to commence on January 20 if reassigned to the presiding judge. The EFCC claims part of the funds was channeled through Ayab Agro Products and other entities, alleging violations of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Bishop Dayo Olutayo Introduces New Mummy GO After Divorcing Wife of 33 Years, Sparks Social Media Reactions

Bishop Dayo Olutayo, younger brother of Faith Oyedepo, introduced his new wife, Funlola Akinrinde, as Mummy GO during a live-streamed Thanksgiving service at Unity Worship Centre, Abuja. The announcement came amid reports of his divorce from Boluwatife Olutayo after 33 years of marriage.

During the live broadcast, Bishop Dayo addressed critics, urging the congregation to welcome his new wife with applause and stated he had “never been married” before, while hinting at a past conspiracy against his life. Church members cheered and celebrated the new union.

Social media reactions were mixed, with some praising his honesty and leadership, while others sympathized with his former wife. The development has sparked widespread discussions on relationships, marriage, and leadership among clergy in Nigeria.

Appeal Court Affirms Death Sentence for Abdulmalik Tanko Over Murder of Five-Year-Old Kano Pupil Hanifa Abubakar, Upholds High Court Ruling

The Court of Appeal sitting in Kano State has upheld the death sentence passed on Abdulmalik Tanko for the murder of five-year-old Hanifa Abubakar, one of Nigeria’s most shocking child murder cases in recent years. Delivering judgment, Justice A. R. Muhammad dismissed Tanko’s appeal and affirmed the ruling of the Kano State High Court, which sentenced him to death by hanging.

The appellate court ruled that the trial court correctly applied the law and thoroughly evaluated the evidence presented by the prosecution. Justice Muhammad stated that Tanko failed to raise any credible issues capable of overturning his conviction, describing the prosecution’s case as strong, consistent, and persuasive. The court further held that there was no legal basis to interfere with either the findings or the sentence imposed by the lower court.

The judge also noted that once Tanko exhausts all remaining legal options, the appropriate authorities should ensure that the judgment is fully enforced.

Hanifa Abubakar was abducted in December 2021 from Noble Kids Academy in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, a school owned by Tanko. Investigations revealed that Tanko kidnapped the child, demanded a ₦6 million ransom from her parents, and later poisoned her with rat poison, leading to her death. The case sparked nationwide outrage due to the victim’s young age and the breach of trust by a school proprietor entrusted with children’s safety.

Tanko was arraigned alongside Isyaku Hashim and Fatima Jibril in January 2022 on charges including criminal conspiracy, kidnapping, unlawful detention, and culpable homicide. In July 2022, the Kano State High Court sentenced Tanko and Hashim to death by hanging, while Fatima Jibril was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for her role in the crime.

Alleged Terrorism Financing: EFCC Arraigns Bauchi Commissioner, Three Others for $9.7m

The Federal High Court, Abuja has ordered the remand of the Bauchi State Commissioner for finance Yakubu Adamu and three others in Kuje correctional centre pending the determination of their bail application.

Justice Emeka Nwite gave the other following the arraignment of the four defendants by the EFCC.

Yakubu Adamu, Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed were arraigned on a ten-count charge bordering on conspiracy, conversion of public funds and alleged terrorism financing running to over 9 point 7 million dollars.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to the ten - count change.

While the defence counsel moved the motion for the bail application of the defendants, the prosecution counsel opposed the application.
Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the matter to January 5, 2026 for ruling on the bail application