Operatives of the Department of State Services on Monday rearrested a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, shortly after he visited the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.
The former minister was reportedly picked up outside the prison premises moments after concluding his visit. A video that later circulated on social media showed Malami approaching a vehicle believed to belong to the DSS, where he was seen requesting the operatives to identify themselves before entering the van.
A security source, who confirmed the arrest, said the action followed multiple petitions alleging Malami’s involvement in terrorism financing.
According to the source, the allegations are considered serious and require thorough investigation, irrespective of the status of the individual involved.
He noted that terrorism related offences are treated with utmost gravity globally and recalled that Malami, during his tenure as Attorney General, had repeatedly stated that no individual linked to terrorism or its financing would be shielded from prosecution.
The source added that security agencies are obligated to act on credible allegations in the interest of national security.
“No responsible government will ignore allegations of terrorism financing against any person, regardless of how highly placed,” the source said.
Explaining the arrest procedure, the source said inter agency collaboration remains a normal practice in security investigations.
He stated that while different security agencies may initiate investigations, terrorism related matters fall within the statutory mandate of the DSS, making it appropriate for the agency to take over such cases.
As of the time of filing this report, the DSS had yet to issue an official statement on the arrest. Efforts to reach Malami’s legal representatives for comments were also unsuccessful.
