In a dramatic scene unfolding on Monday afternoon, officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) intercepted and re-arrested the former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, SAN, moments after he walked out of Kuje Custodial Centre.
Malami, who had just perfected his bail conditions regarding an ongoing N8.7 billion money laundering case brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was immediately taken into DSS custody to face a fresh probe.
The re-arrest follows a separate investigation into alleged terrorism financing and the reported discovery of a cache of arms and ammunition at Malami’s country home in Kebbi State. Sources indicate that the illegal items were uncovered by EFCC operatives during a prior search and subsequently handed over to the DSS for a specialised security investigation.
Reports from the scene suggested that Malami was aware of the heavy DSS presence surrounding the prison and had initially shown reluctance to exit the facility despite being cleared for release.
The news has ignited a firestorm of debate across Nigeria, with many viewing the incident as a “taste of his own medicine,” while others see it as an abuse of state power.
“Karma knows how to make people suffer for everything they have done,” remarked social media commentator Masterpiece. “So the DSS will have to re-arrest him and detain him in their own custody even when he’s still facing a charge of money laundering? No be small hot soap this man enter.”
Echoing the sentiment that power is transient, Felix Adejimi noted, “Baba reigned supreme some three years ago and used these tactics so well. Power is transient. I appeal to all to be kind when in power.”
However, the move has also raised concerns regarding due process. The Centre for Nigeria Progress questioned the timing of the arrest: “Why did the DSS not carry out its own investigation while he was in the custody of EFCC? Why wait for him to be granted bail and then arrest him? This is evidently an abuse of power and process.”
Within political circles, the re-arrest is being interpreted as more than just a legal matter. Some observers suggest the “baton-style” rotation between agencies is a strategy for political containment.
“This is no justice. Na containment. Na message to anybody wey fit challenge power,” argued an analyst from iOccupyNigeria. “Malami get clout, he get money, and he know where bodies dey buried. That kind person fits scatter APC plans for 2027 if he enter wrong camp.”
As of Monday evening, the DSS has not issued a formal statement regarding the duration of this new detention. Malami’s legal team is expected to challenge the re-arrest, arguing that the separate charges are a violation of his fundamental rights.
