Security operatives on Monday raided the residence of Abubakar Malami, a former Attorney-General of the Federation.
The operation occurred just hours after a visit by Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice-President, , alongside other members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who had gone to see Malami following his recent release from detention.
Malami, who is facing multiple charges including alleged money laundering, had only recently regained freedom after being granted bail by a Federal High Court in Abuja.
A video circulating online showed a heated exchange between Malami and the operatives, who arrived at his residence to reportedly mark properties linked to an ongoing forfeiture process.
In the footage, Malami, still dressed in the same outfit he wore while receiving Atiku earlier, challenged the legality of the operatives’ actions, demanding to see a valid court order authorising the move.
“Show me where they said you should come and take over my property. When the matter is pending in court, can you operate extraordinarily?” he queried.
Responding, one of the plain-clothed officials insisted that the agency had the authority to act. “We have the right to mark property once the property is under forfeiture,” the operative said.
Malami, however, disputed the claim, arguing that any prior court order had already elapsed and did not grant the operatives fresh authority to act.
“Order granted for 14 days has elapsed and you’re coming to embarrass me… Where is the order that gave you the permission to come over to my property and mark them?” he asked.
Despite the exchange, Malami eventually told the operatives to proceed, stating, “Go ahead and mark. We will meet in court.”
The former minister is currently standing trial on a 16-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering alongside his wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, Abdulaziz.
He has consistently denied all allegations, describing the case as politically motivated and accusing the Federal Government of orchestrating a witch-hunt against him.
In a recent interview with DCL Hausa, Malami said his experiences in custody, including time spent with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and at Kuje Correctional Centre, were part of a life journey.
“I believe it is all God’s will, and I accept it, but I will defend myself against the allegations,” he said.
Malami’s legal ordeal has been marked by a series of arrests and detentions. After an initial release, he was rearrested on January 19 by operatives of the DSS.
Two days later, he alleged that he was denied access to his family and legal representatives while in custody, claims that raised concerns among his supporters.
On February 27, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted him and his son bail in the sum of N200 million each over separate allegations, including claims linked to terrorism-related offences.
The former Attorney-General has also accused security agencies of violating his constitutional rights during the investigation.
According to him, operatives conducted searches of his homes and business premises without prior notice or his presence.
“Constitutionally, I have the right to be present during a search to oversee the investigation of my property and to know exactly what is being looked for or taken,” he said.
Despite mounting legal pressure, Malami has maintained that he stands by his actions while in public office, insisting he has no regrets about his tenure.
“I have no regrets regarding what I did during my time as a minister,” he stated.
