Malami says he’s been released by EFCC, to return for ‘further engagements’

Abubakar Malami, former attorney-general of the federation (AGF), says he has been released after honouring an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement on X, Malami said his engagement with the anti-graft agency “was successful”, adding that he has been scheduled for “further engagement.”

“In line with my undertaking to keep Nigerians updated on my invitation by EFCC, I give glory to Allah for his divine intervention,” he said.

“The engagement was successful and I am eventually released while on an appointment for further engagement as the truth relating to the fabricated allegations against me continue to unfold.”

His comments follow an earlier announcement in which he confirmed receiving an invitation from the EFCC.

At the time, he said he would honour the invitation as a law-abiding citizen and out of commitment to accountability.

“I hereby reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation,” he said.

“I understand the spirit of accountability and transparency in public service — the principles that I both advocate and champion.”

Malami had also said he would keep Nigerians informed as developments unfold.

FIVE SUSPICIOUS MEGA DEALS

TheCable had in 2023 reported that Malami would be questioned over at least five suspicious transactions during his time in office.

Malami’s name featured in a number of questionable deals under the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

The transactions bordered on the mysterious payment of $496 million to Global Steel Holdings Ltd (GSHL) as settlement for the termination of the Ajaokuta Steel concession nine years after the Indian company had waived all claims for compensation.

Another contentious matter is Malami’s handling of the sale of assets worth billions of naira forfeited to the EFCC by politically exposed persons.

The former minister’s role in the $419 million judgment debt awarded to consultants who claimed to have facilitated the Paris Club refunds to states is also up for scrutiny.

Others are the curious agreement to pay Sunrise Power $200 million compensation in its dispute with the federal government over the Mambilla power project, and the duplicated legal fees in the transfer of $321 million Abacha loot from Switzerland to Nigeria.