Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has declared that he has no regrets over his tenure in office, following his release from custody.
Malami, who faces a 16-count money laundering charge alongside his wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, Abdulaziz, said he is prepared to vigorously defend himself. The trio has pleaded not guilty to the charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The former minister was rearrested by Department of State Services (DSS) operatives on January 19, shortly after being released from Kuje Prison. On January 21, he accused the DSS of denying him access to his family and legal counsel.
On February 27, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail to Malami and his son, set at N200 million each, over alleged terrorism-related offences. He has since met all bail conditions and regained his freedom.
In an interview with DCL Hausa on Wednesday, Malami described his experiences in EFCC custody, Kuje Prison, and DSS detention as part of “God’s will,” while reaffirming his determination to contest the allegations.
“I have spent time in EFCC custody, Kuje Prison, and with the DSS. I believe it is all God’s will, and I accept it, but I will defend myself against the allegations,” he said.
Malami also accused the security agencies of violating his rights by conducting searches of his homes and business premises without notifying him.
“They violated my rights by searching my houses and business premises without notifying me during the investigation. Constitutionally, I have the right to be present during a search to oversee the investigation of my property and to know exactly what is being looked for or taken,” he stated.
Despite the challenges, Malami insisted he remains steadfast. “I have no regrets regarding what I did during my time as a minister,” he concluded.
