Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has rejected claims linking him to terrorism financing, calling the recent report misleading and baseless.
In a statement on Friday, Malami stressed that neither Nigerian nor international security agencies have ever accused, interrogated, or investigated him over terrorism funding or related crimes.
He clarified that a retired military officer referenced by SaharaReporters as their source did not accuse him of financing terrorism, but instead mentioned vague “business or institutional” contacts with some suspects. Malami condemned how this was distorted by political opponents.
“Terrorism financing is a serious offence. Allegations must be grounded on concrete evidence and lawful investigation, not speculation or guilt by association,” he stated.
Malami highlighted his tenure’s achievements, including reforms that bolstered Nigeria’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework, such as establishing an independent Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit and passing the Money Laundering and Terrorism Prevention Acts in 2022.
These measures contributed to Nigeria’s removal from the FATF grey list, he noted.
The former minister also emphasised that routine interactions with diverse individuals are inherent in public service and should not be misconstrued as wrongdoing.
He warned against irresponsible reporting on national security, stressing it harms reputations and public trust. Malami firmly dismissed all insinuations linking him to terrorism financing.
Committed to justice, Malami said he reserves the right to pursue legal action against misleading publications damaging his reputation.
