EFCC Files 16-Count Money Laundering Charges Against Ex-AGF Malami, Son
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a 16-count money laundering charge against former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), his son Abdulaziz Malami, and an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, Hajia Bashir Asabe.
According to the charge sheet, which is the first in a series of prosecutions, the EFCC alleged that Malami laundered about N9 billion through corporate entities and proxies to acquire luxury properties across Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and other locations.
The anti-graft agency is also demanding explanations over approximately 30 properties allegedly linked to Malami, valued at N212.8 billion, most of which were reportedly acquired during his tenure as Attorney-General between 2015 and 2023.
Investigations revealed that the former minister allegedly used companies such as Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited and Meethaq Hotels Limited to conceal the origins of illicit funds through multiple bank transactions, property purchases, and loan arrangements. The charges span transactions carried out between 2015 and 2025, involving hundreds of millions of naira in suspected proceeds of unlawful activities.
The EFCC further disclosed that it may activate the Non-Conviction Based Asset Forfeiture provision under its Establishment Act to seize some of the disputed properties. Under the law, the commission has a 14-day window to invite interested parties to justify why the assets should not be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Several of the charges relate to alleged conspiracies to disguise the sources of funds used to purchase high-value properties in Maitama, Asokoro, Jabi, Gwarimpa, and other prime locations in Abuja, as well as properties in Kebbi and Kano States.
The defendants are accused of knowingly concealing, retaining, or controlling funds believed to be proceeds of unlawful activities, contrary to provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011, as amended.
The case is expected to proceed in court, while the EFCC continues its investigations and possible recovery of assets linked to the alleged offences.
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