The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed March 10 for the commencement of trial of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz, over alleged terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms.
The Department of State Services (DSS) had arraigned the duo on February 27, but proceedings were adjourned after Justice Joyce Abdulmalik granted them bail.
During the resumed sitting on Wednesday, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Rotimi Oyedepo, informed the court that his office had taken over the case and required time to review the case files.
Counsel to the Malamis urged the court to strike out the charges, arguing that the allegations lacked merit.
However, the DPP opposed the request, describing it as premature and insisting that the prosecution should be allowed to present its case.
After hearing the arguments from both parties, Justice Abdulmalik ordered the prosecution to open its case on March 10.
Earlier, the court admitted Malami and his son to bail in the sum of ₦200 million each, with stringent conditions.
The conditions include providing sureties who own property in Maitama or Asokoro in Abuja, depositing the title documents of the properties with the court, and surrendering their international passports.
The five-count charge accuses Malami of abetting terrorism financing while serving as Attorney-General of the Federation.
Both defendants are also alleged to have stored firearms and live cartridges at their residence in Kebbi State without a valid licence.
The trial is scheduled to resume on March 10 when the prosecution is expected to begin presenting its case.
Godfrey Eshiemoghie
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