Alleged Terrorism: Court adjourns Malami, son’s trial until April 15
The Federal High Court, Abuja Division, on Tuesday, adjourned the alleged terrorism financing and illegal possession of firearms case against former AGF Abubakar Malami and his son, Abdulaziz, until April 15 and 16.
The defendants were present in court when the matter came up before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
At the proceedings, Akinlolu Kehinde, who appeared for the prosecution, informed the court that the case was scheduled for hearing. However, Mr Kehinde told the court he only received instructions to take over the prosecution on Monday and therefore required time to confer with witnesses.
“I got the instruction to take over the prosecution of the case on Monday, so I need time to interface with the witnesses. I most humbly ask for another date,” he said.
Counsel to the defendants, Shuaibu Arua, did not oppose the application for adjournment.
In her ruling, Ms Abdulmalik granted the request and adjourned the matter for trial on April 15 and 16.
The State Security Service arraigned Messrs Malami and Abdulaziz for terrorism and unlawful possession of firearms. In charge FHC/ABJ/CR/63/2026, Mr Malami was accused of refusing to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers whose case files were allegedly forwarded to him while he served as justice minister.
The defendants were also accused of warehousing firearms at their residence in Gesse Phase II Area, Birnin Kebbi LGA of Kebbi, without lawful authority.
Specifically, the SSS alleged in count one that Mr Malami knowingly abetted terrorism financing by failing to prosecute alleged financiers, contrary to Section 26(2) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
In counts two to five, Mr Malami and his son were charged with unlawful possession of a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, 16 Redstar AAA 5’20 live cartridges and 27 expended Redstar AAA 5’20 cartridges.
The offences, according to the prosecuting agency, are contrary to and punishable under relevant provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Firearms Act, 2004.
The SSS handed the case over to the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation on March 4, when it was scheduled to commence a full hearing.
(NAN)
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