The re-arraignment of former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami (SAN), and his son, Abdulaziz, was on Friday stalled following the public holiday declared in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for area council elections.
The Department of State Services (DSS) had scheduled the fresh arraignment before the Federal High Court in Abuja on February 20, 2026. However, the exercise could not proceed after it became clear that court workers would not be on duty due to the work-free day declared by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
Security operatives had reportedly taken positions at the court premises as early as 7:00 a.m. ahead of the proceedings. By 9:00 a.m., when the defendants were expected to appear before Justice Peter Lifu, information emerged that court activities would not hold, prompting the DSS to shelve the move.
Malami and his son are facing a five-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism-related offences and unlawful possession of firearms.
The case had earlier been mentioned before a vacation judge, who subsequently returned the file to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment. Although the matter was later reassigned to Justice Obiora Egwuatu, the judge declined to proceed for personal reasons.
Sources said the defendants are now expected to be re-arraigned on Monday, February 23, 2026.
In the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/63/2026, Malami is accused of allegedly refusing to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers while serving as AGF and Minister of Justice. He and his son are also accused of unlawfully possessing a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, live ammunition and expended cartridges at their residence in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
During their earlier arraignment, both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The case continues to draw national attention given Malami’s former position as the nation’s chief law officer.