Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, on Monday asked the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to step aside from an investigation involving him, citing alleged bias, personal interest, and political targeting following his recent move to the African Democratic Congress. The request was made through a statement issued by his media aide in Abuja.
Malami stated that the ongoing investigation lacked fairness and due process, alleging that his detention and public treatment were unlawful and aimed at damaging his reputation. He argued that the EFCC leadership could not conduct an impartial inquiry into his case because of past events that created personal conflict between him and the current chairman.
According to Malami, the issue dates back to his time as Attorney General, when the Federal Government set up the Ayo Salami Judicial Commission of Inquiry to examine activities within the EFCC. He noted that the current EFCC chairman served as secretary to the commission and was affected by findings contained in the final report. Malami claimed this history has influenced the present investigation and turned it into a retaliatory action rather than a lawful probe.
He therefore called on the Attorney General of the Federation to intervene and ensure that another law enforcement agency handles the matter to protect public trust in the justice system. Malami also demanded that he be either charged in court or released within 24 hours, relying on provisions of the 1999 Constitution that guide detention and prosecution procedures.
The former justice minister further raised concerns about the EFCC’s alleged plan to rely on individuals convicted and imprisoned abroad as witnesses, describing such an approach as damaging to the integrity of criminal justice. He added that his legal team had begun steps to protect his rights by requesting official documents connected to the investigation so he could prepare a defence.
Malami maintained that his goal was not political negotiation but a transparent legal process before a competent court. As of the time of reporting, the EFCC had not issued any response to his allegations or demands.