Full Breakdown
Abubakar Malami Denies Allegations of Terrorism Financing
12/7/2025, 2:28:25 AM
Overview of Allegations
Abubakar Malami, the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice in Nigeria, has publicly rejected allegations linking him to terrorism financing. These claims emerged from a publication that suggested he had connections with individuals described as terror suspects or alleged financiers. Malami characterized these allegations as unfounded, misleading, and politically motivated.
Malami's Response and Clarifications
In a statement, Malami emphasized that he has never been accused, interrogated, or investigated by any security or intelligence agency, either domestically or internationally, regarding terrorism financing. He pointed out that the retired military officer cited in the report did not directly accuse him but merely mentioned vague “business” or “institutional” relationships involving certain suspects. Malami stated, “To suggest that lawful professional or institutional engagements can, without more, be read as evidence of terrorism financing is both mischievous and unjust.”
Legislative Reforms and Achievements
Malami highlighted his contributions to strengthening Nigeria's legal framework against money laundering and terrorism financing during his tenure. He noted the establishment of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and the enactment of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, as well as the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. These reforms aimed to enhance Nigeria's compliance with international standards and contributed to the country's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
Criticism of Media Reporting
Malami criticized the media for potentially damaging reputations through careless reporting, especially concerning national security issues. He urged journalists to exercise responsibility and precision in their reporting, warning that exaggerated claims could undermine public trust in institutions tasked with ensuring national security. He stated, “Careless or exaggerated reporting can not only damage individual reputations but also undermine public confidence in the very institutions relied upon by all to keep the country safe.”
Commitment to Legal Integrity
Reaffirming his commitment to the rule of law and Nigeria’s international obligations, Malami expressed his readiness to seek legal redress against any publication that misrepresents his role in combating money laundering and terrorism financing. He concluded, “I reject in its entirety any insinuation, innuendo or suggestion… that seeks to associate my person with terrorism financing or any form of support for terrorism.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Malami has firmly denied any wrongdoing, it is noted that he was recently questioned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over unrelated matters. This raises questions about the context of his engagements and the nature of the allegations against him, highlighting a potential gap in public understanding of the situation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “First, I state clearly and unequivocally that I have never at any time been accused, invited, interrogated, investigated or charged by any security, law-enforcement, regulatory or intelligence agency—within or outside Nigeria—in respect of terrorism financing or any related offence.” — Abubakar Malami, Former Attorney-General of the Federation
- “Terrorism financing is a grave crime with devastating consequences for national security and human life.” — Abubakar Malami
- “To imply otherwise is to weaponise ordinary institutional contact into a tool of character assassination,” — Abubakar Malami
This article synthesizes Malami's response to the allegations, his achievements in office, and the broader implications of the claims made against him.
