AGF Fagbemi Takes Over Malami’s Prosecution Case

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has assumed direct control of the criminal proceedings involving his predecessor, Abubakar Malami, marking a significant shift in the high-profile terrorism and firearms trial.

Proceedings at the Federal High Court were halted shortly after the development was disclosed, as the new prosecution team sought time to study the case file. 

Officials indicated that the change was necessary to ensure continuity and proper handling of the matter.

Malami is currently facing charges bordering on alleged terrorism-related offences and unlawful possession of firearms. 

The case was initially instituted by the Department of State Services, which had been leading the prosecution before the Attorney General’s intervention.

In court, the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, formally announced Fagbemi’s takeover. 

He explained that the legal team required additional time to familiarise itself with the facts and evidence.

“The Attorney General has reviewed the matter and decided to personally oversee the prosecution,” Oyedepo said. 

“However, we need adequate time to properly align with the records before opening our case.”

Counsel to the defendants, Adedayo Adedeji, did not object to the adjournment request. 

Nevertheless, he urged the court to consider striking out the charges if the prosecution fails to commence trial on the next scheduled date. 

“Justice must not be delayed under the guise of administrative changes,” he said.

Presiding judge, Joyce Abdulmalik, subsequently adjourned proceedings until March 10. She directed that the prosecution must formally open its case at the next sitting.

Earlier, the court had granted bail to Malami and his son, Abdulaziz, in the sum of ₦200 million each. 

The conditions require two sureties per defendant, with each surety owning landed property in either Maitama or Asokoro, Abuja.

Additionally, the title documents of the properties are to be deposited with the Deputy Chief Registrar of the court. 

Both defendants and their sureties must submit affidavits of means and surrender valid international passports alongside recent passport photographs.

The case continues to draw public attention due to the stature of the accused and the gravity of the allegations. 

Legal analysts note that the Attorney General’s decision to assume direct control could influence the pace and direction of the prosecution in the coming weeks.