By Adesakin Adefemi
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on Tuesday 23 December 2025, granted interim bail to former Attorney‑General of the Federation Abubakar Malami (SAN). Justice Bello Kawu ruled that the application was merited “on the grounds of exceptional hardship” and should remain in effect pending the hearing of the substantive motion on notice.
Justice Kawu ordered Malami’s release on the same bail terms previously set by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The conditions include surrender of his international passport and bail bonds secured by two sureties – the Director‑General of the Nigerian Legal Aid Council and a serving member of the House of Representatives for Augie/Argungu Federal Constituency.
The judge noted that Malami had already complied with the bail conditions imposed on 28 November 2025, and therefore, the court reviewed and reactivated those conditions. He added that the interim bail is “in the interest of justice” until the motion is heard.
Malami, who served as Attorney‑General and Minister of Justice from 2015 to 2023, is under EFCC investigation for alleged financial and administrative infractions during his tenure. Details of the allegations have not been disclosed in open court.
The former minister had argued that continued restrictions amounted to undue hardship and could prejudice his right to a fair hearing. His counsel emphasized that the interim bail would allow him to prepare his defence without unduly curtailing his liberty.
The case has been adjourned to 5 January 2026 for hearing of the substantive motion. The interim order was issued under the seal of the High Court of Justice, Abuja, and signed by Registrar Hadiza Sambo Gwandu.
The ruling follows a series of conflicting court decisions on Malami’s bail. Earlier in December, a different FCT High Court judge dismissed his bail application, holding that his detention was lawful under a valid remand order.
The interim bail decision is being widely reported, including by major outlets such as Vanguard, Independent Nigeria, and The Historica Nigeria. The coverage highlights the ongoing legal saga surrounding the former AGF and the EFCC’s ongoing probe.
