“I’ll Defend Myself” — Ex-AGF Malami Speaks Out After Release from Custody
A former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has broken his silence after regaining freedom from custody, insisting he has no regrets about his time in office and is ready to face his legal battles head-on.
Malami, who is currently standing trial over multiple allegations, said he remains firm and unshaken despite the events that led to his arrest and detention.
He stressed that he would defend himself against all charges brought against him.
The former minister is facing a 16-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering. His wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, Abdulaziz, are also listed in the case. All defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
His legal troubles deepened earlier this year when he was rearrested on January 19 by operatives of the Department of State Services shortly after he was released from Kuje Prison.
The development sparked reactions at the time, especially after claims that he was denied access to both his family and legal representatives while in custody.
Relief, however, came on February 27 when a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja granted bail to Malami and his son. The court fixed the bail at N200 million each in connection with alleged terrorism-related offences. After meeting the conditions, he was released from custody.
Speaking in an interview with DCL Hausa published on Wednesday, Malami reflected on his experience across different detention facilities, including EFCC custody, Kuje Prison, and the DSS facility. He described the entire episode as part of a divine process.
“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.
He also raised concerns over how the investigation was handled. According to him, security operatives carried out searches on his homes and business premises without informing him or allowing him to be present.
“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.”
Despite the weight of the allegations and the time spent in detention, Malami maintained a strong position on his past actions while in government.
“I have no regrets regarding what I did during my time as a minister,” he concluded.
The case is expected to continue in court in the coming weeks as legal proceedings unfold.
