ADC Accuses EFCC of Politically Targeting Malami Over Kebbi Governorship Ambition
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as a politically motivated move by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following the revocation of bail earlier granted to former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mallam Abubakar Malami, SAN. According to the party, the action appears aimed at undermining Malami’s emerging governorship ambition in Kebbi State rather than serving the interests of justice.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC argued that there is no evidence to suggest that Malami violated any of the conditions attached to his initial bail. The party maintained that the former justice minister had cooperated fully with EFCC investigators and conducted himself in line with the law.
The ADC particularly questioned the timing of the bail revocation, noting that it occurred shortly after Malami attended a political rally in Kebbi State. Abdullahi said this sequence of events creates the impression that Malami’s political activities, rather than any breach of bail terms, triggered the EFCC’s decision. He warned that such actions risk portraying the anti-graft agency as an active participant in partisan politics.
While reaffirming its support for anti-corruption efforts, the ADC cautioned against what it termed selective investigations and the weaponisation of law enforcement agencies against opposition figures. According to the party, such practices ultimately weaken the credibility of the fight against corruption and foster public distrust in institutions meant to uphold justice impartially.
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The party stressed that corruption remains one of Nigeria’s gravest challenges and insisted it does not oppose genuine accountability. However, it expressed concern that the EFCC’s conduct in this case suggests political bias, arguing that revoking bail on the basis of political participation amounts to an unconstitutional restriction of a citizen’s political rights.
Abdullahi further stated that no government agency has the constitutional authority to suspend political rights, restrict lawful political engagement, or determine where a citizen may pursue political interests. He argued that the apparent restriction placed specifically on Malami’s activities in Kebbi State reinforces suspicions that the EFCC’s action is intended to cripple his governorship bid.
The ADC also called on the EFCC to reassess its priorities, drawing attention to surveys and reports that have ranked key national institutions among the most corruption-prone in the country. According to the party, addressing systemic corruption at the highest levels would strengthen public confidence in the agency’s mission.
Beyond the party’s statement, the controversy has ignited strong reactions among Nigerians, particularly on social media and public discussion platforms. Critics of Malami dismissed the ADC’s claims, arguing that the former Attorney-General should face the allegations against him without political distractions. Some accused the ADC of shielding corruption, questioning the party’s commitment to good governance.
Others, however, echoed the ADC’s concerns, suggesting that the EFCC has a history of being used as a political tool, especially during periods of intense political competition. These voices argue that inconsistent enforcement of anti-corruption laws fuels perceptions of bias and selective justice.
The debate has also widened into a broader national conversation about accountability, political morality, and the standards expected of individuals seeking elective office. While some commentators insist that anyone with unresolved corruption allegations should be barred from contesting elections, others warn that denying political participation without a court conviction undermines democratic principles.
As the situation unfolds, Malami’s legal fate and political future remain uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the case has once again exposed Nigeria’s long-standing tension between anti-corruption enforcement and political power, raising fundamental questions about fairness, due process, and the true independence of state institutions.