Abacha Loot: Stop Shedding Crocodile Tears, Face EFCC – Adeyanju Tells Malami

Human rights advocate and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has responded to former Attorney General of the Federation and ex-Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, urging him to take responsibility and stop what he called “shedding fake crocodile tears” ahead of his impending confrontation with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Adeyanju rejected Malami’s assertion that the EFCC’s move to arrest and prosecute him is politically motivated, branding the claim as unfounded and misleading.

Malami was recently taken into custody by the anti-corruption agency over alleged financial improprieties linked to his tenure as Attorney General and Justice Minister.

However, the former minister insisted that the action against him amounts to political harassment.

Several opposition politicians have also criticized Malami’s arrest, alleging that it reflects an attempt by the Federal Government to silence critics and stifle opposing views.

In response, Adeyanju called on the EFCC to act firmly and thoroughly investigate Malami’s alleged role in issues relating to funds connected to the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, as well as other alleged corrupt dealings during his time in office.

In a statement he titled: “Malami must be prosecuted by the EFCC despite his crocodile tears,” Adeyanju stated that Malami’s accusations against the EFCC, suggesting the agency is driven by political hostility and therefore unfit to investigate him, are regrettable.

He emphasized that the commission should proceed without delay in examining Malami’s conduct, especially regarding matters surrounding the Abacha loot and his overall record while serving in public office.

He further stressed that holding public office is a position of trust and that both former and current officials must be ready to fully account for how they managed that responsibility.

Adeyanju also observed that Malami showed little restraint during his tenure, allegedly deploying state power against political opponents.

He noted that Malami should not expect immunity from prosecution, having presided over similar actions against others while he was in office.

Adeyanju said: “The EFCC should proceed without hesitation to investigate Mr Malami, particularly in relation to his stewardship while in office of all issues surrounding the Abacha loot.

“Malami showed no restraint while in government and wielded state power against everyone including members of the opposition. Having subjected others to prosecution, he cannot now escape from the same process.”