Former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has raised concerns over an alleged plan by security agencies to rearrest him immediately after his release from custody, despite being granted bail by a court.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Malami’s office said it had received credible intelligence suggesting that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) had mounted surveillance at the Kuje Correctional Service and were on standby to effect a fresh arrest. The statement warned that the move would undermine due process and threaten Malami’s personal safety.
The statement recalled that a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory had earlier granted Malami bail, an order which it said was not honoured, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission allegedly declined to facilitate his release. According to his aides, the refusal effectively frustrated a valid court decision.
Malami’s office now claims that plans are underway to rearrest him on what it described as unrelated charges, with the aim of keeping him in continuous detention. The statement described the alleged strategy as granting bail “on paper” while preparing new arrests to bypass judicial orders.
“This pattern represents a grave assault on constitutional safeguards and an abuse of state power,” the statement said, adding that it weakens public confidence in the justice system and shows disregard for judicial authority.
The statement also warned that the safety of Malami, his family, and his staff was at risk. It said any act of intimidation, unlawful detention, or harm resulting from the alleged actions must be fully accounted for by those responsible.
Malami reaffirmed his willingness to submit to lawful judicial processes and said his only demand was obedience to court orders and respect for constitutional protections guaranteed to all citizens.
His office called on relevant authorities, members of the legal community, civil society groups, and the international community to monitor the situation closely and urge security agencies to act within the law. It said further updates would be provided as events unfold.
