By Muhammad Mamman
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has disclosed the reasons behind the continued detention of a former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, following days of public speculation and intense political debate.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the anti-graft agency said Malami was being held in connection with ongoing investigations into alleged large-scale financial improprieties and abuse of office during his tenure as the nation’s chief law officer. The EFCC stressed that the probe involves multiple high-profile transactions and policy decisions taken while he was in office.
According to the commission, Malami was invited for questioning after preliminary findings linked him to suspected money laundering and the mismanagement of public funds running into billions of naira. It added that investigators are examining his alleged role in the approval and execution of several controversial financial deals.
The EFCC dismissed claims that Malami’s detention was politically motivated, insisting that the action was strictly in line with its mandate to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes, regardless of status or influence.
“The commission is guided by the rule of law and due process,” the statement said, noting that Malami would be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
The development has sparked mixed reactions across the political landscape, with supporters calling for his immediate release, while civil society groups have urged the EFCC to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.
Malami, who served as Attorney-General of the Federation from 2015 to 2023, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations.
