Former Attorney-General of the Federation and ex-Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has raised serious concerns over what he described as an alleged attempt by the Department of State Services (DSS) to place him back into custody shortly after securing bail. Malami’s claim follows a ruling by the Federal High Court, which reportedly approved bail for him, his wife, and his son. Each of the defendants was granted bail under strict conditions, including a financial bond of ₦500 million per person and the provision of two sureties. Despite the court’s decision, Malami alleges that security operatives are taking steps that may undermine the bail order. According to a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Mohammed Bello Doka, there is credible information suggesting that new arrest plans are already being finalized. The statement claims that these alleged actions are not related to the charges for which bail was granted. Instead, it suggests that the move is part of a broader strategy aimed at keeping Malami in detention through the introduction of fresh allegations immediately after his release. Further details in the statement allege that operatives of the DSS have reportedly intensified monitoring activities around the Kuje Correctional Centre, where Malami has been held. The alleged surveillance, according to the media aide, is intended to facilitate an immediate re-arrest once bail conditions are met. Malami’s camp described this development as a disturbing pattern in which bail is technically granted while parallel efforts are made to prevent actual freedom. The statement warned that such actions, if true, represent a serious threat to constitutional protections and the rule of law. According to the statement, this approach weakens public trust in Nigeria’s justice system and raises fundamental concerns about respect for court orders and judicial independence. It emphasized that the practice of filing unrelated charges to justify repeated detentions erodes the credibility of democratic institutions. The former Attorney-General also expressed fears over personal safety. The statement stressed that Malami, his family members, and his aides could be exposed to intimidation or unlawful treatment if the alleged plan is carried out. In closing, Malami’s media team stated that any harm, illegal detention, or coercive action against him or those associated with him must be fully traced to the individuals or institutions responsible. They urged relevant authorities to respect the rule of law and ensure that constitutional rights are upheld.
