Malami Defends Stewardship Amid Legal Challenges
Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has publicly defended his stewardship following his release from prison custody. Malami, who is facing a 16-count charge of alleged money laundering alongside his wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, Abdulaziz, maintained his innocence and pledged to vigorously defend himself against the allegations. All parties have pleaded not guilty to the charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Malami was rearrested on January 19 by operatives of the Department of State Services shortly after his initial release from Kuje Prison. He later accused the DSS of denying him access to his family and legal team. On February 27, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail to Malami and his son in the sum of N200 million each over alleged terrorism-related offences. He has since fulfilled the bail conditions and regained his freedom.
During a live programme, Malami described his experience as "God's will" and reiterated his commitment to defending himself. He also alleged violations of his rights during the investigation, claiming that security agencies searched his homes and business premises without notifying him. Despite the ordeal, Malami stated, "I have no regrets regarding what I did during my time as a minister."
HURIWA's Strong Criticism of Malami's Tenure
In response, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized Malami's eight-year tenure under the late Muhammadu Buhari's administration. The group labeled his time in office as wasteful and accused him of being a poor chief law officer. HURIWA argued that Malami tolerated invasions of the private houses of judges and justices, as well as the illegal removal of the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, for political considerations.
HURIWA further stated that Buhari's actions, backed by Malami, such as the illegal abduction of Nnamdi Kanu from Nairobi, Kenya, showcased a disregard for fundamental human and civil rights. The group emphasized that these actions violated several international human rights laws and Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
Emmanuel Onwubiko, the National Coordinator of HURIWA, expressed shock at Malami's lack of regret, saying, "HURIWA is shocked that the man who was the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice throughout the lawless government of General Muhammadu Buhari is saying that he has no regrets over all these infractions and violations of human rights of citizens with his backing. Malami has tasted the meal he prepared for Nnamdi Kanu. He should thank God that President Tinubu is lenient with him despite the atrocities of violations of human rights of citizens that happened right under his nose."
The contrasting views highlight ongoing debates about accountability and human rights in Nigeria's political landscape, with Malami standing firm on his record while facing significant criticism from advocacy groups.
