By Muhammad Mamman
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), over fresh investigations linked to the recovery and management of repatriated Abacha loot and other sensitive financial dealings under his watch.
Malami, who arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, was invited to clarify a series of transactions reportedly connected to recovered funds, legal fees, and negotiations carried out during his tenure. Sources familiar with the development said the former minister was questioned extensively on allegations bordering on the disbursement of recovered assets and his role in high-value agreements between the Federal Government and private intermediaries.
According to officials, the interrogation centres on concerns that some recoveries made from the late General Sani Abacha’s foreign accounts may not have been fully accounted for, alongside questions surrounding legal consultancy contracts awarded during the repatriation process.
The EFCC is also said to be reviewing documents relating to several multi-million-dollar settlements handled by the Ministry of Justice, including the terms, beneficiaries, and compliance with due process.
Malami, who served as AGF from 2015 to 2023, has previously denied any wrongdoing, insisting that all decisions made under his leadership were lawful, transparent and in Nigeria’s best interest.
As of press time, EFCC sources indicated that the former AGF would remain in custody pending further clarifications and the conclusion of preliminary findings. The commission has yet to issue an official statement on the development.
The detention marks one of the most high-profile interrogations of a former top government official since the renewed anti-corruption drive intensified under the current administration.
