The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has summoned former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, for questioning in a significant development that has captured national attention.
Malami's Public Announcement
Malami personally disclosed the invitation through a post on his official Facebook page on Friday, November 28. The former justice minister confirmed receiving the summons from the anti-graft agency but notably did not reveal the specific reason for the invitation or the subject matter under investigation.
The former minister served as Nigeria's chief law officer from late 2015 until May 2023, covering the entire eight-year administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. During this extensive tenure, Malami exercised supervisory authority over the EFCC, making the current summons particularly noteworthy.
Political Context and Response
Currently, Malami has transitioned into a chieftain role within the opposition African Democratic Congress (APC) and is actively pursuing governorship aspirations in his home state of Kebbi. Despite his political ambitions and former position, the legal luminary has committed to cooperating fully with the EFCC.
In his social media statement, Malami emphasized his dedication to legal compliance and transparency principles. "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," he wrote.
Commitment to Transparency
The former justice minister further elaborated on his approach to the situation, highlighting his understanding of accountability requirements in public service. He specifically promised to keep the Nigerian public informed about developments as they unfold during his interactions with the commission.
Malami stated: "I understand the spirit of accountability and transparency in public service – the principles that I both advocate and champion. Rooted in public service and in the spirit of transparency and accountability, I am committed to sharing with the Nigerian public the developments as they unfold."
This case represents one of the most high-profile investigations involving a former cabinet member who previously oversaw the same anti-corruption agency now conducting the inquiry. The development comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria's fight against financial crimes and corruption in public office.
