Atiku, ADC Allege Political Witch-Hunt Over Malami as EFCC Denies Politicisation
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of engaging in a political witch-hunt following the detention and bail revocation of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN.
The allegations have, however, been firmly rejected by the anti-graft agency, which insists that its actions are based strictly on legal and procedural grounds, not politics.
In a statement released over the weekend, Atiku warned that Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive risks losing credibility if law-enforcement institutions are perceived as tools for political intimidation. He argued that selective enforcement of the law erodes public trust and weakens democratic institutions, stressing that anti-graft agencies must remain neutral and guided solely by due process.
The ADC echoed similar concerns, describing Malami’s continued detention as suspicious and politically motivated.
The opposition party pointed to the timing of the EFCC’s decision, noting that it followed Malami’s recent political activities in Kebbi State, where he is believed to be nurturing a governorship ambition ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to the ADC, there is no evidence that Malami violated any bail conditions, and the revocation of his bail amounts to an attempt to stifle his political engagement.
Reacting sharply to the accusations, the EFCC dismissed claims of a witch-hunt, stating that the matter has “nothing to do with politics.” The commission explained that Malami was granted administrative bail, which is discretionary and conditional, and that he failed to meet the specific requirements attached to that bail. The agency maintained that attendance at a political rally was not the reason for his continued detention.
The EFCC further stressed that its operations are apolitical and that suspects are treated equally regardless of status or political affiliation. It urged Malami to comply fully with bail conditions and cooperate with investigators, adding that due process would be followed throughout the investigation.
Malami, for his part, has denied all allegations leveled against him, including claims linking him to illicit bank accounts or recovered funds. His legal team has challenged the EFCC’s actions in court, arguing that the bail conditions are unreasonable and that his detention violates his constitutional rights.
The standoff has reignited a broader national debate over the independence of Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies and the fine line between law enforcement and political rivalry, particularly as the country edges closer to the 2027 general elections.
