Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
In a dramatic twist in one of Nigeria’s most closely watched corruption and prosecution sagas, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have allegedly rearrested Abdulaziz Malami, son of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami (SAN), at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja, abruptly halting what was expected to be his release on bail.
According to security sources, the attempted release of Abdulaziz ran into serious difficulty when court bailiffs arrived at the prison with fully processed bail documents issued by the Federal High Court. While the documents were said to be in order, the release process reportedly broke down after Abubakar Malami insisted that his son be moved out of the facility quietly, bypassing established exit procedures. This request, described by officials as irregular, immediately raised concerns among security personnel overseeing the facility.
Anticipating possible complications, DSS operatives had already placed the Kuje Correctional Centre under intense surveillance. Security sources disclosed that all vehicles exiting the prison were profiled, and movements around the facility were closely monitored. Abdulaziz was reportedly intercepted shortly after he had been handed over for release and was immediately taken back into custody, marking a dramatic reversal in the unfolding bail process.
The rearrest comes amid an unusually heavy security presence at Kuje Prison. Earlier reports indicated that more than 50 DSS operatives had been deployed to the facility in recent weeks, following intelligence assessments linked to the ongoing investigation. The scale of the deployment underscored the sensitivity of the case and heightened speculation about internal concerns within the security architecture.
The legal battle involving the Malami family has been marked by sustained activity from both judicial and security institutions. In early January, a senior correctional officer was said to have conducted a raid on the VIP cell housing Abubakar Malami and his son, an action viewed as part of broader efforts to tighten custodial control and enforce strict compliance with prison regulations. The raid further fueled public debate over the handling of high-profile detainees and the balance between privilege and procedure within Nigeria’s correctional system.
Separately, there have been allegations that Abubakar Malami deliberately slowed the processing of his own bail while DSS operatives maintained a siege-like presence around the prison. Although these claims remain contested, they reflect the tense atmosphere surrounding the case and the deep mistrust between the defence team and security agencies involved in the prosecution.
The case itself stems from sweeping allegations of financial crimes. The former attorney-general, his son Abdulaziz, and other family members are facing charges related to conspiracy, money laundering, and the concealment of proceeds of unlawful activities. Prosecutors allege that billions of naira were moved through complex transactions and fronts, raising serious questions about abuse of public office and illicit enrichment.
Adding to the gravity of the matter, a Federal High Court has already ordered the interim forfeiture of dozens of properties linked to Abubakar Malami and his family. Anti-graft agencies estimate the assets to be worth more than ₦200 billion, spanning multiple locations and comprising residential, commercial, and landed properties. Authorities argue that the forfeiture order is necessary to preserve assets suspected to be proceeds of crime pending the conclusion of the trial.
The unfolding events have drawn widespread attention across Nigeria, given Abubakar Malami’s prominent role in the previous administration as the nation’s chief law officer. For many observers, the prosecution represents a significant test of Nigeria’s commitment to holding powerful former officials accountable. For others, it raises concerns about due process, the role of security agencies in judicial matters, and the optics of rearresting a defendant after bail documentation has been issued by a court.
As Abdulaziz Malami remains in custody, legal experts expect renewed court applications and possible judicial clarification on the circumstances surrounding the aborted release. The DSS, EFCC, and the courts are now under intense public scrutiny, with civil society groups, legal practitioners, and ordinary citizens closely watching how the matter unfolds.
The developments at Kuje Correctional Centre add yet another layer of complexity to an already high-stakes case. Beyond the immediate fate of Abdulaziz Malami, the outcome is likely to have broader implications for Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive, the relationship between security agencies and the judiciary, and public confidence in the rule of law.
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