A coalition of Ulamah, legal practitioners, media professionals, civil society organisations, northern youth groups and elders has strongly condemned the continued detention of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing it as unconstitutional and politically motivated.
In a joint statement issued on Friday and signed by the coordinator, Dr. Abdulkadeer Abdulkareem, the groups expressed outrage that Malami has been held for several days without formal charges, evidence presented in court, or trial, a situation they said clearly violates the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The coalition warned that detaining a former minister without due process undermines the rule of law and raises serious concerns about selective justice. They argued that the action smacks more of political vendetta than genuine anti-corruption efforts.
They also questioned the timing of the detention, noting that Malami’s arrest came shortly after he defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a development they said fuels public suspicion.
“Why now? Why was he not invited or detained while he was still in the APC? These are legitimate questions that the EFCC and the federal government must answer,” the statement said.
According to the groups, anti-corruption agencies must operate strictly within the law, stressing that political differences or party affiliations should never determine who is investigated, arrested, or detained.
The coalition demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Malami if no charges are ready for prosecution, insisting that no Nigerian, regardless of status, should be held indefinitely without trial.
They further called on the EFCC to either promptly file charges in court or release the former minister, warning that “justice delayed is justice denied.”
“We demand transparency. If there is a case against Malami, it should be presented before a competent court of law. Otherwise, he must be released without further delay,” the statement added.
The groups reaffirmed their commitment to defending constitutional rights, fairness, and due process, and signalled readiness to challenge what they described as any form of abuse of power or politically driven harassment through lawful means.