Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to continue the investigation and prosecution of former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, dismissing the latter’s claims of political victimization as baseless.

Adeyanju described Malami’s allegation that the EFCC is acting out of political vendetta as “regrettable” and “unfounded.” He stressed that public office carries responsibility and accountability, and no individual should be exempt from scrutiny.

“Public office is a trust, and all past and present public officials must be prepared to give a full account of how that trust was exercised,” Adeyanju said.

The activist further argued that Malami’s conduct while in office, particularly concerning matters related to the Abacha loot, warrants investigation. He added that Malami, who previously wielded state power to prosecute others, cannot now claim immunity from the same process.

Malami, SAN, recently demanded that the EFCC either arraign him in court or release him within 24 hours, citing constitutional provisions against unlawful detention. Through his media aide, Muhammad Doka, he also called for the recusal of the EFCC Chairman, alleging bias, political persecution, and retaliation linked to his recent defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Malami claimed that the EFCC’s ongoing probe reflects “illegal detention, media harassment, and procedural abuse,” arguing that the current investigation is influenced by “deep-seated historical animosity,” pointing to adverse findings from the Justice Ayo Salami Judicial Commission of Inquiry during his tenure.

The EFCC, however, refuted allegations of political persecution as false and misleading, stating that Malami’s detention followed his failure to meet conditions attached to administrative bail. The Commission also emphasized that it operates strictly within the law and remains apolitical, dismissing claims that his bail revocation was politically motivated.

Malami had previously cited ill-health as a reason for not attending further interrogation scheduled for December 1, 2025, requesting permission to attend to medical matters.

Adeyanju insisted that the EFCC must proceed without hesitation, asserting that accountability in public office must apply equally to all, regardless of status or political affiliation.