Former AGF Abubakar Malami Detained by EFCC
Abubakar Malami, the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice in Nigeria, has been detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The detention occurred on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, after Malami reportedly failed to meet the bail conditions previously granted to him. He had initially been invited for questioning on November 29, 2025, and was released on bail following that interrogation.
A senior EFCC official confirmed the development, stating that Malami would remain in custody until he fulfills the requirements. 'We arrested him for not meeting his bail conditions and he will remain in our custody until he meets those conditions,' an official was quoted as saying. The anti-graft agency is believed to have secured a remand order for his continued detention.
Extensive Allegations Under Investigation
The EFCC is investigating Malami for a wide array of alleged offenses, reportedly totaling 18 different charges. These include serious accusations of money laundering, abuse of office, and terrorism financing. Sources within the commission indicate that the investigation is extensive and will require considerable time to process all the allegations.
Specific areas of the probe include:
- The operation of suspicious bank accounts.
- The whereabouts of $322 million of the recovered Abacha loot from Switzerland and an additional $22 million from the Island of Jersey.
- An alleged N10 billion investment in various ventures, including schools, hotels, and rice mills, within Kebbi State.
- Alleged links to N4 billion from the Anchor Borrowers' Programme funds, with reports suggesting one of Malami's wives may be invited for questioning regarding this matter.
- Investigation into 46 bank accounts allegedly tied to Malami.
- Allegations concerning the duplication of the recovery process for the Abacha loot.
Malami's passport has reportedly been seized to prevent international travel.
Malami Denies Allegations
In response to the accusations, Abubakar Malami has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He described the allegations, particularly those related to terrorism financing, as 'fabricated' and politically motivated. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) after his initial interrogation on November 29, he stated, 'The engagement was successful and I am eventually released while on an appointment for further engagement as the truth relating to the fabricated allegations against me continues to unfold.'
He further asserted that his public record in office stands in direct contradiction to any insinuation of complicity in terrorism financing, highlighting his role in Nigeria's anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing reforms. Malami also dismissed claims of operating 46 bank accounts as 'entirely fictitious' and part of a 'media trial'.
Ongoing Investigation
As of the time of reporting, the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, has been unavailable for official comments regarding the ongoing detention. The commission continues its investigation into the multiple allegations against the former Attorney-General, with officials indicating that the probe is complex and will unfold over several days.
5 Comments
Raphael
Another political witch-hunt by the EFCC. Malami is being targeted.
Donatello
While it's good to see the EFCC pursuing high-profile cases, the sheer number and nature of the allegations raise questions about their substantiation. Both sides need to present their cases clearly without bias.
Raphael
Terrorism financing? That's a huge leap. This smells like a setup.
Donatello
It's crucial for the EFCC to investigate corruption at all levels, but we must ensure Malami receives a fair trial. The judicial process needs to be transparent, not a media spectacle.
Raphael
The public wants justice for alleged financial crimes, especially involving such large sums. Yet, the accused's right to a fair hearing and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty remains paramount in a democracy.