Abubakar Malami, the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, is taking legal action to overturn a Federal High Court decision regarding 48 properties connected to him. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Abuja Federal High Court recently approved the final forfeiture of these assets to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The court determined that Malami and other involved parties did not sufficiently prove the properties were obtained through legal means, noting they failed to resolve concerns that the assets originated from illicit activities. Through a statement released by his media aide, Mohammed Bello Doka, Malami announced his disagreement with the ruling and instructed his lawyers to initiate an appeal.
Malami asserted that this decision is not the end of the legal dispute, emphasizing the importance of the appellate court in reviewing judicial findings. While reaffirming his respect for the judiciary and the Nigerian Constitution, he expressed his belief that the outcome will change in his favor upon review. He requested that the public avoid making snap judgments as the legal proceedings continue. Finally, Malami expressed gratitude to his supporters in Kebbi State and throughout Nigeria, encouraging them to remain patient and follow the law as the case moves to the next phase.
