EFCC PROBE: Malami accuses Olukoyede of pursuing personal vendetta
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is facing allegations of carrying out a personal vendetta against the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, following the release of his statement regarding Chapter 9 of the Justice Ayo Salami Judicial Commission of Inquiry Report.
The report, reportedly kept under wraps for an extended period, accuses EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede of multiple financial improprieties and abuse of office. Malami’s office claims that the recent raids on his offices and private residences in Abuja and Kebbi State were a direct response to his public call for Olukoyede to recuse himself due to alleged bias.
The unannounced raids primarily targeted documents related to Chapter 9, raising concerns over intimidation, retaliation, and the safety of Malami and his staff. Malami’s office described EFCC’s actions as “coordinated intimidation” and a clear attempt to suppress the truth.
Sources say Chapter 9 of the Ayo Salami Commission of Inquiry Report contains serious allegations against Olukoyede, including corruption, abuse of office, and obstruction of justice.
The report also allegedly accuses Olukoyede of engaging in shady dealings, including awarding lucrative contracts to associates and family members.
Malami’s office maintains that EFCC’s actions are a desperate attempt to silence him and prevent the full report from being released.
“The EFCC’s actions are a clear indication that they have something to hide,” said Mohammed Bello Doka, Malami’s Special Assistant on Media.
“We will not be intimidated or silenced. We will continue to fight for transparency and accountability.”
EFCC, however, has denied any wrongdoing, insisting that the raids were part of an ongoing investigation into Malami’s activities. Malami’s office, however, questioned the timing, suggesting it raises serious concerns.
“We question the timing and authority behind these searches,” Doka said.
“Why did they choose to raid our offices immediately after we released our statement on Chapter 9? What are they trying to hide?”
The controversy has sparked outrage from civil society organizations and human rights groups, calling for an independent investigation into EFCC’s conduct.
“This is a clear case of abuse of power and intimidation,” said a spokesperson for the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).
“We demand that the EFCC chairman steps aside to allow a fair and impartial investigation.”
As the standoff escalates, Malami reaffirmed his commitment to a neutral and lawful process, stressing that intimidation and media trials cannot replace due process.
