Some 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, Abubakar Malami.
The protesters said Malami’s continued detention was unjustified and prolonged, despite the investigation into alleged financial misconduct during his time in office. They urged the anti-graft agency to either charge him to court or grant him freedom in line with constitutional provisions.
Malami, who served as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice under former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been in EFCC custody since early December. His detention followed reports that he failed to meet certain administrative bail conditions set by the commission.
The investigation is linked to the handling of recovered Abacha loot, alleged abuse of office, and other financial issues tied to his tenure. The EFCC has maintained that the probe is ongoing and being handled according to due process.
Malami and his supporters have rejected the allegations, describing them as politically motivated. They point to his recent defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the reason for what they describe as targeted action against him.
Tensions have risen in recent days, with Malami’s camp accusing the EFCC of bias and asking the commission’s chairman to step aside from the case to ensure fairness.
A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory had earlier upheld Malami’s detention after dismissing his bail application. Despite the ruling, his supporters insist that continued detention without formal charges breaches his rights.
The EFCC has denied claims of persecution, stating that its actions are guided strictly by the law and established procedures.
