The net is closing in on Abubakar Malami. The former Nigerian Minister of Justice, already facing charges of financial misconduct, must now answer to extremely serious charges before the Abuja High Court.

A growing problem: Terrorism and weapons of war

The Department of State Services (DSS), the domestic intelligence agency, has formally charged Mr. Malami and his son, Abdulaziz, on three main grounds:

1. Terrorism financing: The former minister is accused of deliberately hindering prosecutions against terrorism financiers in 2022, despite files transmitted by the intelligence services.
2. Preparation of terrorist acts: Suspicious activities aimed at destabilizing the State.
3. Illegal possession of weapons: A Sturm Magnum pistol and ammunition were seized during a search of their home in Birnin Kebbi.

A complex legal saga

Already prosecuted since December for laundering 8.7 billion naira (approximately 6 million dollars), Malami thought he had obtained a reprieve following his release on bail in early January.

However, his freedom was short-lived: he was arrested by the DSS immediately upon his release from prison to answer these new charges. At Tuesday's hearing, both father and son pleaded not guilty . This time, the court denied bail.

The "great cleanup" of the Tinubu era

Abubakar Malami, a central figure in Muhammadu Buhari's presidency (2015-2023), is not the only high-ranking official targeted by current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This procedure is part of a wave of prosecutions targeting the former administration.

1. Godwin Emefiele (former governor of the Central Bank)
2. Chris Ngige (former Minister of Labour)

Next step: The trial has been set for February 20th . Until then, the defendants will remain in custody.