On Wednesday, 21 January, 2026, the office of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, dismissed as false reports alleging that arms, ammunition or terror-financing links were uncovered in connection with Malami, warning the media to stop what it described as a “trial by headlines.”
His Special Assistant on Media, Mohammed Bello Doka, Malami’s office, through a statement issued on Wednesday, 21 January, 2026, said no cache of weapons was found in any residence linked to him, describing such claims as “unsubstantiated and unsupported by any official record, judicial document or lawful disclosure.”
Doka added in he statement that Malami has not been convicted of any offence, yet sections of the media have continued to present allegations, investigations and speculation as established facts, in violation of the constitutional presumption of innocence.
“We categorically reject claims that any cache of arms or ammunition was discovered in any residence linked to Abubakar Malami, SAN.
These claims are false, unsubstantiated and unsupported by any official record,” the statement said, adding that no such discovery had been formally communicated to his family or legal representatives.
The statement also denied allegations linking Malami to terrorism or terror financing, arguing that such reports lacked basic details such as named individuals, organisations, transactions or dates, and therefore amounted to speculation.
Concerns were further raised over Malami’s continued detention following his arrest on Monday by the Department of State Services, with the statement alleging that he has been denied access to his family, legal team and associates.
“Since his arrest on Monday by the DSS, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has been denied access to his family, legal team and associates. This prolonged isolation raises legitimate concerns regarding his safety, welfare and constitutionally guaranteed rights,” it said.
The office also also highlighted the emotional and psychological strain placed on Malami’s family and staff as a result of what it described as sensational and unverified reporting.
Placing the development in a political context, the statement added that Malami is a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress and has publicly declared his intention to contest the Kebbi State governorship election in 2027, warning that legal processes must not be influenced by political considerations.
“Against this background, the political undertones now surrounding this matter cannot be ignored. Legal processes must remain insulated from political considerations,” the statement added.
Malami, according to the office, remains committed to the rule of law and due process, while the media was urged to clearly distinguish allegations from facts and allow lawful processes to proceed without prejudice.
