Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has strongly rejected claims associating him with terrorism financing, describing a recent report as baseless and misleading.
In a statement released on Friday, December 6, 2025, Malami said he has never been accused, questioned, or investigated by any Nigerian or foreign security or regulatory agency in connection with terrorism financing or related offences.
He challenged the report’s credibility, stating that the retired military officer cited as its primary source did not accuse him of funding terrorism. According to Malami, the publication instead relied on vague claims that certain suspects allegedly had “business or institutional” contact with various individuals. He added that the report’s framing created false impressions later amplified by political rivals.
“Terrorism financing is a grave crime. Any attempt to associate someone with it must be based on verifiable facts and lawful findings, not conjecture or guilt by association,” Malami said.
Highlighting his tenure in office, Malami pointed to reforms implemented to strengthen Nigeria’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems. These include:
- Establishment of an independent Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU)
- Enactment of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022
- Enactment of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022
He noted that these reforms contributed to Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) “grey list.”
Malami also stressed that routine engagement with a wide range of individuals is inherent to public office and should not be construed as evidence of criminal activity.
He warned that inaccurate reporting on national security issues can damage reputations and erode public trust in institutions, insisting he rejects “any insinuation or suggestion” linking him to terrorism financing.
Malami concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the rule of law and reserving the right to seek redress against publications that misrepresent his actions or integrity.