Former AGF Malami rearrested by DSS minutes after bail release

A video currently trending across social media has captured the dramatic moment former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, was rearrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) just minutes after being granted bail and released from Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja.

The footage, widely shared on Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp platforms, shows Malami walking out of the prison compound following his release.

However, he is immediately surrounded by DSS operatives, who quickly move in to re-arrest him and lead him into a waiting van. The sudden turn of events has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his re-detention.

In the video, Malami is heard demanding to see the identity of the operatives, asking: “Who is the oga among you? Can I see your ID card?” The exchange underscores the confusion and tension of the moment, as the former AGF was seemingly taken into custody without prior notice.

Malami had been remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre after being arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alongside his wife and son on allegations of corruption.

The case has drawn widespread public attention due to Malami’s former position as the country’s top law officer and the high-profile nature of the accusations.

On Monday, he met the bail conditions set by the court and was granted temporary freedom. However, the celebratory relief was short-lived, as the video indicates that DSS operatives moved swiftly to detain him again shortly after he left the prison facility.

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While the exact reason for the fresh arrest remains unclear, sources suggest it may be linked to an ongoing investigation by the DSS.

The speculation follows reports that EFCC operatives discovered arms at Malami’s country home in Kebbi State during a search, prompting questions about whether the DSS is pursuing a separate probe into the matter.

Legal analysts say the incident raises critical questions about jurisdiction and due process, particularly regarding the authority of security agencies to re-arrest a suspect immediately after a court grants bail.

“A person granted bail is presumed to have met the conditions set by the court,” said a senior legal practitioner. “If another agency is involved, there must be a clear legal basis—either a fresh charge or an outstanding warrant. Otherwise, it raises concerns about the rule of law and the integrity of judicial orders.”

A security expert added that the DSS might have acted on intelligence that necessitated immediate action.

“In cases involving national security or potential threats, the DSS can intervene. But the timing—immediately after bail—could have been better handled to avoid public confusion and perception of procedural irregularity.”

The video has sparked widespread debate online, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the apparent contradiction between judicial authority and security agency actions.

Some observers have also raised questions about the timing and optics of the re-arrest, suggesting it may intensify political tensions surrounding the case.

For now, the full circumstances of Malami’s rearrest remain undisclosed, leaving Nigerians waiting for official clarification from the DSS or the court.