Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has urged former Attorney General and ex-Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, to accept responsibility and stop what he described as “crocodile tears” over his impending confrontation with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Adeyanju dismissed Malami’s claims that the EFCC’s actions against him are politically motivated, calling such assertions misleading and unfounded.

Malami was recently taken into EFCC custody over alleged financial irregularities linked to his tenure as Attorney General and Minister of Justice. The former minister had described the move as political harassment, a stance echoed by some opposition politicians who accused the Federal Government of attempting to silence critics.

Responding, Adeyanju called on the EFCC to thoroughly investigate Malami’s role in matters involving the Abacha loot and other alleged corrupt dealings during his time in office.

In a statement titled, “Malami Must Be Prosecuted by the EFCC Despite His Crocodile Tears,” Adeyanju said:

“Malami’s claims that the EFCC is politically motivated are regrettable. The commission should proceed without delay to examine his conduct, especially regarding the Abacha loot and his record in public office.”

He stressed that holding public office is a position of trust, and all officials—past and present—must account for their stewardship.

Adeyanju further noted that Malami allegedly misused state power against political opponents while in office, and therefore cannot expect immunity from prosecution.

“Having subjected others to prosecution, he cannot now escape the same process. The EFCC should investigate all matters surrounding the Abacha loot and his actions while in government without hesitation,” Adeyanju said.