Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has spoken publicly for the first time since regaining his freedom from custody, declaring that he has no regrets about his time in office and is prepared to confront his ongoing legal battles.
Malami, who is currently standing trial over multiple allegations, maintained that he remains resolute and undeterred despite his arrest, detention, and the charges filed against him. He insisted that he would vigorously defend himself in court and clear his name.
The former minister is facing a 16-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Also listed in the case are his wife, Bashir Asabe, and his son, Abdulaziz. All defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Malami’s legal troubles intensified earlier this year when he was rearrested on January 19 by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), shortly after he had been released from Kuje Prison. The development sparked widespread reactions, particularly amid claims that he was denied access to his family members and legal representatives during his detention.
However, relief came on February 27 when a Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail to Malami and his son in connection with separate allegations relating to terrorism. The court fixed their bail at ₦200 million each. After fulfilling the conditions set by the court, both were released from custody.
Speaking in an interview with DCL Hausa published on Wednesday, Malami reflected on his experiences across different detention facilities, including those of the EFCC, Kuje Prison, and the DSS. He described the sequence of events as part of a divine process, indicating a sense of acceptance despite the challenges he has faced.
“I have spent time in EFCC custody, Kuje Prison, and with the DSS. I believe it is all God’s will, and I accept it, but I will defend myself against the allegations,” he said.
Beyond his personal reflections, Malami raised concerns about the manner in which investigations into his affairs were conducted. He alleged that security operatives violated his constitutional rights by carrying out searches on his residences and business premises without notifying him or allowing him to be present.
According to him, such actions denied him the opportunity to observe the process and understand what investigators were searching for or removing from his properties. He argued that this constituted a breach of due process and undermined his rights as a citizen.
“They violated my rights by searching my houses and business premises without notifying me during the investigation. Constitutionally, I have the right to be present during a search to oversee the investigation of my property and to know exactly what is being looked for or taken,” he stated.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations and the time he has spent in detention, Malami remained firm in his defense of his record while serving in government. He reiterated that he stands by his actions during his tenure as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice.
“I have no regrets regarding what I did during my time as a minister,” he concluded.
Malami served as Nigeria’s chief law officer under former President Muhammadu Buhari and was a key figure in the administration’s legal and judicial policies. His tenure, however, was not without controversy, with critics often questioning some of his decisions while in office.
The ongoing case against him is expected to draw significant public attention, given his high-profile status and the nature of the allegations. Legal analysts say the proceedings could test the strength of Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework and the independence of its judicial system.
As the trial continues, the former minister’s insistence on his innocence sets the stage for what could be a prolonged legal battle. Observers note that the outcome will likely have broader implications, not only for Malami and his co-defendants but also for public perceptions of accountability among former top government officials.
For now, Malami appears focused on preparing his defense and navigating the legal process ahead. With court proceedings expected to resume in the coming weeks, attention will remain on how the case unfolds and whether the prosecution can substantiate the allegations against him.
His remarks, however, signal a clear stance: despite the legal challenges and public scrutiny, he remains unyielding in his position and determined to contest all charges brought against him.
