Table of Contents
- Allegations by Abubakar Malami
- Details of the EFCC Raids
- Implications of the Salami Report
- Public Response and Call for Transparency
- Ongoing Investigations
A former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has claimed that his offices and residences have been searched by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a statement from his office, Malami suggested that the alleged search was prompted by his recent mention of the Salami report.
A statement released on Wednesday by Malami’s office indicated that EFCC operatives carried out coordinated searches at the ex-AGF’s offices and private residences in Abuja and Kebbi State.
The statement, signed by Mohammed Bello Doka, Special Assistant on Media to Malami, noted that the searches took place immediately after the former minister publicly referenced Chapter 9 of the Justice Ayo Salami Judicial Commission of Inquiry Report.
According to the statement, the EFCC operatives reportedly focused on documents pertaining to that chapter, without providing any prior notice.
The statement characterized the EFCC’s actions as “deeply alarming,” asserting that they constitute intimidation and retaliation in response to Malami’s request for the recusal of the EFCC chairman from the ongoing investigation due to alleged bias stemming from the Salami Report.
Chapter 9 of the Salami report is said to contain findings implicating senior EFCC officials, including the current Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, who previously served as the secretary to the panel.
“We hereby alert Nigerians and the international community that any harm to our personnel or to Abubakar Malami, SAN, will be directly linked to this pattern of behavior,” the statement cautioned.
Malami’s office urged the media and the public to scrutinize the timing and rationale behind the raids, as well as the ongoing dispute regarding Chapter 9. It called on civil society, professional organizations, and human rights groups to advocate for the complete release of the Salami report to ensure transparency.
This situation arises amid an ongoing EFCC investigation into allegations against Malami, including abuse of office, money laundering, and issues related to the recovery of Abacha loot.
Malami has previously claimed that the investigation is politically motivated and presents a conflict of interest.
Malami has released excerpts from the Salami Report, which he claims indicts EFCC chief, Ola Olukoyede.
Malami stated that Chapter 9 of the report highlights a clear conflict of interest, rendering the EFCC chairman’s continued involvement in matters concerning him inappropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations has Abubakar Malami made against the EFCC?
Abubakar Malami has alleged that the EFCC raided his offices and residences in retaliation for his references to the Salami report, which implicates senior EFCC officials.
What is the significance of Chapter 9 of the Salami Report?
Chapter 9 reportedly contains findings that implicate senior EFCC officials, including the current Chairman, in potential wrongdoing, raising concerns over bias in the ongoing investigation against Malami.
What actions are being called for by Malami's office?
Malami's office is urging the media and public to question the motives behind the EFCC raids and is calling for civil society and human rights groups to demand the full release of the Salami report for transparency.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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