Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has urged former Attorney General of the Federation and ex-Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, to accept responsibility and cooperate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) instead of “shedding fake crocodile tears” over his impending investigation.
The call comes amid heightened public attention following the EFCC’s move to detain and question Malami over alleged financial improprieties linked to his tenure as Attorney General and Minister of Justice. The allegations reportedly include issues surrounding the recovery and management of funds traced to the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, as well as other suspected corrupt dealings during Malami’s time in office.
Adeyanju criticized Malami’s claims that the anti-graft agency’s actions are politically motivated, describing them as “unfounded and misleading.”
“Malami should stop crying political persecution and face the law,” Adeyanju said in a statement titled: “Malami Must Be Prosecuted by the EFCC Despite His Crocodile Tears.”
The Abacha loot refers to billions of dollars stolen by the late military ruler, Sani Abacha, which have been repatriated to Nigeria from various countries over the years. Several officials, both past and present, have faced scrutiny over how these funds were handled. Allegations have often included mismanagement, diversion, or undue influence in their distribution.
During Malami’s tenure as Attorney General, critics allege that he failed to fully protect public interest in the handling of recovered Abacha funds. Some opposition politicians and civil society groups have accused him of stalling investigations and using his office to protect politically connected individuals.
Adeyanju said that Malami’s public claims that the EFCC’s move against him is politically motivated are a distraction from the core issue: accountability.
“He should not expect special treatment,” Adeyanju said. “Having wielded state power to prosecute others, he must now answer for his actions.”
Following his detention, Malami reportedly claimed that the EFCC’s actions were politically motivated, alleging that the agency was acting under pressure from the Federal Government to intimidate critics. Some opposition figures have echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the move is part of a broader effort to silence dissent and prevent scrutiny of government operations.
However, Adeyanju rejected these claims, emphasizing that anti-corruption measures must be impartial and thorough. He argued that Malami’s position in government was one of trust, and all public officials must be prepared to account for their stewardship of public resources.
“The EFCC should proceed without hesitation to investigate Mr Malami, particularly in relation to his stewardship while in office of all issues surrounding the Abacha loot,” Adeyanju said.
Adeyanju urged the EFCC to conduct a full investigation, examining Malami’s conduct comprehensively, not only regarding the Abacha loot but also other alleged acts of corruption and misuse of office during his tenure.
He noted that during his time in office, Malami had allegedly used state power against political opponents and others who challenged government policies, further stressing that this makes it essential for the former minister to be held accountable.
“Malami showed no restraint while in government and wielded state power against everyone, including members of the opposition. Having subjected others to prosecution, he cannot now escape from the same process,” Adeyanju said.
The controversy surrounding Malami has reignited debates about corruption, accountability, and the role of the EFCC in Nigeria. Several civil society groups and human rights organizations have called for transparency in the ongoing investigation, stressing that due process must be followed while ensuring that political motivations do not influence outcomes.
Many Nigerians have also taken to social media to voice their opinions, with some supporting the EFCC’s actions and others siding with Malami’s claims of harassment. Adeyanju and similar activists argue that the focus should remain on justice rather than political narratives.
“The nation deserves to know the truth,” Adeyanju said. “Whether you are a former minister or a current official, you are accountable to the people.”
The ongoing case against Malami comes at a critical time for Nigeria, as the Federal Government continues to grapple with widespread perceptions of corruption and the need to strengthen anti-graft institutions. Observers say that high-profile investigations, if conducted fairly, can enhance public trust in government and demonstrate a commitment to the rule of law.
Conversely, allegations of political targeting can undermine these efforts if not addressed transparently. Adeyanju emphasized that the EFCC must operate independently and apply the law evenly, without fear or favor.
“This is not about politics; it is about the people’s money and the integrity of our institutions,” Adeyanju said.