The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday grilled a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, over sundry issues after which he was granted bail,
Malami, who confirmed his release in a statement on X, said his interaction with investigators “was successful” and that he has been scheduled to return 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 wrote.
“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.”
Malami had earlier acknowledged receiving the EFCC’s invitation, stressing that he would honour it as a law-abiding citizen committed to accountability and transparency.
“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.”
He assured Nigerians that he would continue to provide updates as the process unfolds.
Malami served as Attorney-General of the Federation from 2015 to 2023.
Questions have been raised about his role in several controversial transactions, including the 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.
Other contentious issues include:
The sale of forfeited assets worth billions of naira seized by the EFCC from politically exposed persons.
The $419 million judgment debt awarded to consultants who claimed to have facilitated the Paris Club refunds to states.
The agreement to pay Sunrise Power $200 million in compensation over its dispute with the federal government regarding the Mambilla power project.
Legal fees associated with the repatriation of the $321 million Abacha loot from Switzerland to Nigeria.
These transactions remain key areas of interest in the EFCC’s ongoing probe into alleged misconduct during his tenure.