A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has affirmed the continued detention of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

Justice Babangida Hassan on Thursday dismissed a bail application filed by Malami, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, seeking release from the custody of the anti-graft agency. The ruling, according to a statement issued by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, was delivered on Thursday, December 18, 2025.

Malami, through his lawyer, Suliaman Hassan (SAN), had asked the court to grant him bail, arguing that his detention during an ongoing investigation was unlawful. His legal team maintained that the EFCC lacked justification to keep him in custody.

However, EFCC counsel J. S. Okutepa (SAN) countered the application, telling the court that Malami was being held under a valid remand order. He explained that the order was issued by the FCT High Court and granted by Justice S. C. Oriji, making the detention lawful under existing legal provisions.

In his ruling, Justice Hassan relied on Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, as well as the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. He held that the law permits detention based on a court-issued remand order, and that Malami’s custody by the EFCC met that standard.

According to the judge, granting the bail request would amount to overstepping judicial boundaries. He noted that doing so would require the court to review or overturn a decision made by a court of equal jurisdiction, a power it does not possess.

Malami has remained in EFCC custody since December 8 after failing to meet the bail conditions imposed by the commission.

The former justice minister has been under investigation for 18 alleged offences. These reportedly include abuse of office and terrorism financing. The EFCC has also confirmed that its operatives searched Malami’s residences and offices in Abuja and Kebbi State as part of the investigation.

Malami, for his part, has accused the EFCC of bias in the handling of the case. Despite the allegation, the court’s decision means he will remain in detention while investigations continue.