By: Sani Danaudi Mohammed
The recent publication by DailyNigerian, titled “Malami can’t wash off his legacy of impunity with ADC defection,” is a clear example of a coordinated campaign to tarnish the hard-earned image of Abubakar Malami SAN. The allegations leveled against him by the Citizens Alliance for Rule of Law and Justice (CARoLJ) are baseless, unfounded, and lack concrete evidence.
The group’s claims about Malami’s tenure as Attorney General and Minister of Justice are one-sided and fail to acknowledge the complexities of his role. As a public official, Malami operated within the ambit of the law and the directives of the government of the day. The allegations of enabling impunity, protecting corrupt political elites, and flagrant misuse of state power are unsubstantiated and lack specific examples.
The CARoLJ’s criticism of Malami’s role in the reinstatement of Abdulrasheed Maina is misguided. The group fails to provide context and ignores the fact that Maina’s reinstatement was a result of a court order. Malami, as Attorney General, was duty-bound to comply with the court’s decision.
The group’s allegations about Malami’s role in the presidential pardon granted to former governors Joshua Dariye and Jolly Nyame are also unfounded. The pardon was granted by the President, and Malami’s ministry only played a facilitatory role. It is unfair to single out Malami for criticism when the decision was taken by the President.
The CARoLJ’s claims about Malami allowing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to become a political tool are baseless. The EFCC is an independent agency, and Malami, as Attorney General, had no direct control over its operations. The group’s allegations of selective justice and compromised prosecution are also unsubstantiated.
The group’s criticism of Malami’s asset recovery regime is misguided. The regime was designed to recover stolen assets and return them to the rightful owners. While there may have been challenges and controversies, it is unfair to describe the regime as a “spectacle without substance.”
The allegations about Malami’s family members living lavishly and displaying wealth that bears no proportion to their legitimate income are unfounded and lack evidence. The group fails to provide specific examples and ignores the fact that Malami’s family members are entitled to their private lives.
The CARoLJ’s claims about Malami’s defection to the ADC being a calculated rebranding effort to escape his legacy are baseless. Malami’s decision to join the ADC is a political choice, and he has every right to make that choice. The group’s allegations of desperation and reinvention strategy are unfounded and lack evidence.
Abubakar Malami SAN’s tenure as Attorney General and Minister of Justice was marked by significant reforms and achievements that have had a lasting impact on Nigeria’s legal landscape. His commitment to justice sector reform, asset recovery, and anti-corruption efforts has earned him recognition and accolades.
Abubakar Malami SAN’s contributions to Nigeria’s legal and political landscape are undeniable. His commitment to justice, reform, and anti-corruption efforts has left a lasting impact on the country. Baseless allegations and unfounded claims will not tarnish his hard-earned reputation
Key Achievements
– Asset Recovery: Malami oversaw the recovery of over $1 billion in looted funds through international asset recovery agreements. He also facilitated the repatriation of over $300 million in stolen funds from the United States and Island of Jersey.
– Justice Sector Reform: Malami implemented the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) across 30 states, ensuring a more efficient and unified legal framework nationwide. He also pioneered virtual court hearings and established the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC).
– Anti-Corruption Efforts*: Malami championed the fight against corruption, securing 59 convictions in 63 terrorism cases. He also worked to strengthen Nigeria’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks .
In conclusion, the publication by DailyNigerian is a clear example of a coordinated campaign to tarnish Malami’s image. Nigerians are wise and have great vision to see beyond their noses. They will not be swayed by baseless allegations and unfounded claims. Malami is now a household name in Nigerian politics, and his contributions to the country’s legal and political landscape are undeniable. The ongoing campaign of columny by faceless groups will not succeed in damaging his reputation.
Mohammed, Writes from Abuja via danaudicomrade@gmail.com
