DSS Arrests Ex-AGF Malami Over Terrorism Financing, Arms Allegations

Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, was taken into custody by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on January 19, 2026, shortly after his release from the Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja.

Malami had just completed his bail conditions in an ongoing case instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) when the DSS effected the arrest.

The DSS action is reportedly connected to allegations of terrorism financing and the discovery of arms and ammunition at Malami’s residence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State. The weapons were allegedly uncovered by the EFCC during a search linked to its financial crimes investigation. As issues relating to illegal possession of firearms fall outside the EFCC’s mandate, the matter was transferred to the DSS for further investigation.

Malami is currently facing a 16-count charge by the EFCC over alleged money laundering involving more than ₦8 billion. The charges also involve his wife, Asabe Bashir, and his son, Abdulaziz Malami, over the alleged use of companies and Bureau De Change operators to launder funds and acquire high-value properties across several states.

While terrorism financing allegations have been raised against him, they are not part of the formal EFCC charges, and Malami has denied any involvement.

His legal troubles began following EFCC investigations into his tenure as Attorney General, focusing on alleged corruption and money laundering. Although he was granted bail, his release was delayed amid concerns of a possible rearrest by the DSS, which eventually occurred after he met his bail conditions.