EFCC Insists No Court Order Served Them to Release Malami
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified conflicting reports regarding the detention of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, stating that no court order directing his release has been officially served on the commission or his legal team.
In a statement issued Wednesday, EFCC’s lead counsel emphasized that recent claims suggesting that Malami had been granted bail were misleading.
The commission said it had not received any formal documentation from the court authorizing the release of the former minister.
According to EFCC officials, reports circulating on social media and in certain news outlets about an alleged ex parte bail order were inaccurate.
The EFCC’s statement explained that in accordance with Nigerian law, any court order for the release of a suspect must be formally served on the authority holding the individual.
Without such service, the agency is under no obligation to release the detainee.
EFCC’s counsel described the notion that Malami could be freed without notice to the commission as “highly irregular” and stressed that all legal procedures are being strictly followed.
The clarification follows public confusion arising from Malami’s legal team, which had earlier suggested that a court had granted him bail and that the EFCC was refusing to comply.
EFCC officials categorically denied these claims, asserting that all existing court orders for Malami’s detention remain valid and enforceable.
Malami has been under investigation in connection with alleged financial crimes, including money laundering and the misappropriation of substantial funds.
A federal court had previously remanded him in EFCC custody while investigations continued. Subsequent applications for bail filed by his lawyers were dismissed, with the court affirming the lawfulness of his detention.
Legal analysts observing the case noted that the dispute highlights the importance of proper court procedures, including formal service of orders, especially in high-profile matters involving senior public officials.
They emphasized that adherence to legal process is crucial to prevent misunderstandings and maintain public confidence in the judicial system.
As of Wednesday, the EFCC reaffirmed that Malami remains in its lawful custody, and the investigation into the allegations against him continues without interruption.
The commission urged the public and media to rely on verified information and official statements to avoid spreading confusion or misinformation about the case.
