The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) has labelled the ongoing investigation and prosecution of former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami SAN, as a “defining moment” for the rule of law in Nigeria.
In a statement released by Executive Director Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, the organisation warned that the handling of this case will reveal whether the current administration is truly committed to accountability or if political loyalty will continue to supersede justice.
For eight years under the Buhari administration, Malami was one of the most powerful figures in the federal cabinet. CHRICED alleges that during his tenure, the former AGF wielded extraordinary influence, often appearing to operate above the very institutions he was tasked to lead.
Comrade Zikirullahi noted that many Nigerians watched as Malami moved through government like a “colossus,” allegedly dismantling structures and shielding allies while targeting perceived opponents.
The group specifically highlighted the unprecedented turmoil at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) during Malami’s term, noting the public removal of former Acting Chairman Ibrahim Magu.
In what the organisation described as a striking twist of fate, the current investigation into Malami is reportedly being led by an official who was allegedly pushed out of the agency during Malami’s oversight.
The statement addressed public reports regarding the former AGF’s financial standing, citing allegations of unexplained wealth that could potentially reach billions of naira. While the masses suffered through failing schools, deteriorating hospitals, and the devastating Naira redesign, CHRICED observed that many political elites were accused of enriching themselves and their families.
The group maintains that a man who once used the justice system to silence dissent must now submit himself fully to that same system to provide clarity to the Nigerian people.
CHRICED used the occasion to issue a stern warning to those currently holding power in the Tinubu administration, reminding them that political influence is transient. Quoting Arundhati Roy, the statement noted that once the consequences of impunity are seen, they cannot be “unseen,” and the public will not forget the actions of those in office today.
The organisation is calling for a transparent, independent, and uncompromised judicial process where the courts can ultimately affirm innocence or serve justice without fear or favour.
CHRICED insists that Nigeria must break the cycle of recycling individuals with unresolved corruption allegations into positions of power. Ultimately, the group argues that this case is about the future of accountability and whether the suffering of citizens will finally matter more than the comfort of the political elite.
