Trial begins May 26, June 15
The Federal Government has amended the charges filed against former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami and his son, Abdulaziz, dropping the allegation of terrorism financing.

At yesterday’s proceedings, counsel to the Department of State Services (DSS), Akinlolu Kehinde, informed the court of the amendment and sought leave to substitute the earlier charge.

The amended charge now centres solely on the alleged illegal possession of firearms.

Lawyer to the defendants, Shaibu Aruwa, confirmed receipt of the amended charge and did not oppose its reading in court. Both defendants subsequently pleaded not guilty.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled that the defendants should continue under the bail conditions earlier granted on February 27.

The court, thereafter, adjourned the matter to May 26 and June 15 for trial.

According to the prosecution, arms and live cartridges were recovered from Malami’s residence in Birnin Kebbi, forming the basis of the current charge.

The defendants were initially arraigned by the DSS on February 3 on a five-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism financing and illegal possession of firearms.

The agency had accused the former AGF of failing to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers despite receiving case files during his tenure.

On February 27, both defendants were granted bail in the sum of N200 million each, with two sureties in like amount.