Amanze Chinonye
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday raided the Abuja residence of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, in a development that has heightened political tensions in the capital.
The operation, which took place on March 23, came just hours after a visit by former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, who had earlier met with Malami in what aides described as a solidarity visit.
Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating online showed EFCC operatives at the residence, with Malami confronting the officials and questioning the legality of the raid. In one of the videos, the former AGF was heard demanding to see a court order authorising the operation, raising concerns over due process.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAddressing journalists shortly after the incident, Malami faulted the action, insisting that the operatives failed to present a valid and specific court order permitting the raid on his property. He argued that the document shown to him did not authorise the action carried out at his residence.
“Where is your court order? Do you want to embarrass me?” he was heard asking during the confrontation, adding later that any grievances should be resolved through proper legal channels.
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The former justice minister described the operation as an attempt to intimidate and publicly discredit him, alleging that the move formed part of a broader pattern linked to his ongoing legal challenges. He further suggested that the actions against him carried political undertones, though he did not provide specific evidence to support the claim.
Malami maintained that the matter involving him was already before the courts and stressed that any enforcement action must strictly comply with judicial directives. He also vowed to challenge the EFCC’s actions legally.
“There is a court process. If you have anything against me, meet me in court,” he said.
There had initially been conflicting reports suggesting the involvement of the Department of State Services (DSS). However, verified accounts indicate that the raid was conducted by the EFCC, Nigeria’s primary anti-corruption agency.
The EFCC has yet to issue a detailed official statement on the operation. However, the development is believed to be connected to ongoing investigations involving Malami, including allegations bordering on financial crimes. The former AGF has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
As of press time, it remained unclear whether any arrests were made or items seized during the operation.
The incident has since drawn mixed reactions, with some observers viewing it as part of a broader anti-corruption drive, while others have questioned the timing, particularly in light of Atiku’s visit earlier in the day.
Further details are expected as the legal and political implications of the raid continue to unfold.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
