Malami Alleges EFCC Bias, Calls for Chairman’s Withdrawal from His Case

ABUJA — Former Attorney-General of the Federation and immediate past Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has openly accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of engaging in what he described as a targeted witch-hunt against him.

Malami has formally demanded that the Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, step aside from any involvement connected to investigations or potential prosecution linked to his name. According to the former justice minister, the continued participation of the EFCC leadership in the matter raises serious concerns about neutrality, fairness, and adherence to due process.

He maintained that the anti-graft agency, under its current leadership, lacks the moral and legal standing to handle issues involving him objectively. Malami argued that the principle of justice requires not only fairness in action but also fairness in perception, stressing that any investigation conducted under questionable impartiality undermines public confidence in the rule of law.

The former Attorney-General emphasized that recusal is necessary to prevent conflicts of interest and to ensure that any legal process aligns strictly with constitutional standards. He insisted that without such a step, any outcome arising from the EFCC’s actions could be seen as procedurally flawed and legally questionable.

Malami’s position reflects a broader debate surrounding institutional accountability and the independence of anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria. His demand adds to ongoing national conversations about transparency, ethical governance, and the need for public institutions to operate without prejudice or personal interest.