Malami's alleged trip to Saudi Arabia for Umrah has been debunked as a false claim. The claim, made by an X user @NuhuSadaø on February 23, was accompanied by a photograph showing Malami seated with a woman inside an aircraft. The image, however, was found to be old, dating back to May 24, 2024, when it was first shared by an Instagram account linked to a support group for Fatima Malami.
Malami remains in the custody of the Department of State Services over allegations of terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms. His legal troubles began after operatives of the DSS arrested him on January 19, 2026, outside the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.
The Department of State Services has maintained that Malami is still in custody, contrary to the claim that he had travelled to Saudi Arabia. His media aide, Mohammed Bello Doka, also dismissed the claim, stating that Malami was brought to court last Friday but the case could not proceed due to a public holiday declared by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Further checks confirmed that the court hearing earlier scheduled for February 20 did not take place due to the public holiday. The case is set to resume on February 27, 2026.
The latest development in Malami's ongoing trial is a stark reminder of the need for accountability in public office. Despite his claims of innocence, Malami remains in custody for alleged terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms. The fact that he is still in custody raises questions about the fairness of the trial and the ability of the Department of State Services to conduct a thorough investigation. The public has a right to know the truth about Malami's activities and the allegations against him. As the trial continues, it is essential that the Department of State Services provides clear evidence of Malami's involvement in these alleged crimes.
