The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has officially summoned former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, for mandatory questioning regarding ongoing financial investigations.
Official Invitation and Legal Basis
In a formal letter dated November 24 and signed by Sunday Atiba Ofen Imu on behalf of EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, the anti-graft agency requested Malami's appearance at their Jabi headquarters in Abuja. The commission invoked Section 38 of the EFCC Establishment Act as the legal foundation for this summons, scheduling the meeting for Friday, November 28.
While the EFCC maintained discretion about the specific nature of the investigation, the commission emphasized that certain crucial information required clarification from the former minister. The agency stated that Malami's cooperation was essential for their ongoing probe into matters of financial accountability.
Malami's Response and Commitment
The former Attorney General confirmed receiving the invitation and immediately expressed his willingness to comply with the EFCC's request. In an official statement released on Friday, November 28, Malami reaffirmed his dedication to transparent governance and lawful conduct.
"This is to confirm that I have been invited by the EFCC. As a law abiding and patriotic citizen, I hereby reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation," Malami declared.
He further emphasized that accountability and transparency remained fundamental principles throughout his public service career, noting that he both advocated and championed these values during his tenure.
Background and Context
Abubakar Malami served as Nigeria's Attorney General and Minister of Justice throughout former President Muhammadu Buhari's administration. His term in office attracted significant public attention due to numerous high-profile legal decisions and policy implementations that shaped the country's judicial landscape.
The former minister assured Nigerians that he would keep them informed about developments as the process with the EFCC unfolds, maintaining his stance on open communication and governmental transparency.
This development occurs alongside other significant EFCC activities, including the recent sentencing of a fraudster to 50 years in prison for impersonating popular actor Fredrick Leonard, and the declaration of former Petroleum Minister Timipre Sylva as wanted over alleged financial misconduct involving $14.8 million.