The African Democratic Congress, Kebbi State chapter, has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission of acting outside the law and displaying political bias, following the detention of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN.
The party made the allegation on Sunday during a press conference held at Azbir Hotel, Birnin Kebbi, where it called for Malami’s immediate release, insisting that his detention was unconstitutional and politically motivated.
Addressing journalists, the Kebbi State Chairman of the ADC, Sufyan Bala, said the EFCC had allegedly overstepped its mandate and was gradually assuming the role of “the law itself,” rather than a law enforcement agency bound by constitutional provisions.
“The EFCC is a creation of the law and must operate strictly within the confines of the Constitution.
“When law enforcement becomes selective and biased, it poses a serious threat to democracy and the rule of law,” Bala said
The ADC alleged that the detention of Malami, a senior member and leader of the party in Kebbi State, was part of a wider attempt to intimidate opposition figures and coerce them into joining the ruling All Progressives Congress.
According to the party, Malami has not been formally charged with any offence, a development it said contravenes the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), stressing that no Nigerian should be treated below the law.
“We are not asking for special treatment. He must not be treated above the law, but certainly not beneath it. Democracy cannot thrive under fear, intimidation and lawlessness,” Bala said.
Despite the situation, the party said it remained resolute and undeterred, assuring its members and supporters of its commitment to democratic principles and political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The ADC chairman urged party members across Kebbi State to remain calm and law-abiding, while reaffirming the party’s determination to challenge what it described as “ineffective governance” at the local, state and national levels.
PUNCH Online reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission detained Malami after he failed to meet the bail conditions granted to him. He has remained in custody since December 8 and is being investigated for 18 offences, including alleged abuse of office and terrorism financing
As of the time of filing this report, the EFCC has not publicly disclosed the details of the investigation involving Malami, nor responded to the accusations of bias raised by the ADC.