A group of youths in Kebbi State on Saturday staged a peaceful protest in Birnin Kebbi, calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, who has been in the agency’s custody since early December.
The protesters expressed concern over what they described as a prolonged and unjustified detention, insisting that Malami should either be formally charged to court or granted freedom in line with constitutional provisions. They argued that continued detention without trial undermines the principles of due process and the rule of law.
Malami, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, is currently being investigated over alleged financial improprieties linked to his tenure in office. The probe reportedly covers issues relating to the management of recovered Abacha loot, alleged abuse of office, and other financial-related matters. His detention is said to have continued after he allegedly failed to meet the conditions of his administrative bail.
Despite the allegations, Malami and his supporters have denied any wrongdoing. They maintain that the investigation is politically motivated, pointing to his recent political activities and defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as factors behind what they described as targeted persecution.
Tensions have continued to rise, with Malami’s supporters accusing the EFCC of bias and calling on the commission’s chairman to step aside from the case to ensure fairness and transparency.
Earlier, a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) dismissed Malami’s bail application, thereby upholding his continued detention by the anti-graft agency.
In response to the allegations, the EFCC has denied claims of political witch-hunt, stressing that its actions are guided strictly by the law and due process, and that investigations are being carried out without prejudice.