Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has raised alarm over what he described as a renewed attempt by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to take possession of his Maitama residence in Abuja.
Malami alleged that operatives of the anti-graft agency stormed his home this morning to enforce a forfeiture order and assume control of the property.
The development follows a series of recent operations by security agencies targeting assets linked to the former minister across the Federal Capital Territory. During earlier raids, operatives reportedly sealed multiple properties, including private residences and office spaces associated with Malami.
Eyewitnesses recounted tense scenes at some of the locations, with video footage showing the former AGF confronting officials and demanding to see valid court orders authorising the enforcement. He insisted on strict adherence to due process.
However, the EFCC confirmed that its actions were backed by law, stating that the operation was carried out in compliance with a valid court-issued forfeiture order.
Sources within the Commission maintained that the enforcement aligns with the provisions of Section 5 of the EFCC Act, which empowers the agency to investigate financial crimes and recover assets suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity.
Speaking after an earlier raid on Monday, Malami acknowledged the existence of a court order issued two months ago for the interim forfeiture of his properties but insisted he had complied with legal requirements.
“There were personnel that were fully kitted, fully armed, and very intimidating, harassing my immediate family members… Letters were eventually served not only in respect of the house where they found me, but my other multiple houses and business premises were all invaded,” he said.
“To my knowledge, indeed there was an order of the court dated two months ago for interim forfeiture of my properties. But the implication of that order was that I was given 14 days within which to respond. We have responded and filed an application for such order to be set aside.”
The former AGF further alleged that the EFCC’s actions were politically driven.
“The insinuations associated with the unfolding drama point to a clear direction of political motivation,” he said.
Malami also linked the development to recent visits by prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“The fact that among the people who visited my house was the former Vice President… and then the EFCC came shortly thereafter, points to a possible conclusion that the actions were politically motivated,” he added.
He maintained that the situation would not deter his political ambitions, stressing his constitutional right to contest elections.
“The right to vote and be voted for is constitutional… the idea of reconsidering my governorship ambition is not on the table,” Malami stated.
