Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Abubakar Malami, SAN, Nigeria’s former Attorney‑General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has declared that he harbours no regrets about his conduct in public office, even as he faces multiple criminal charges and intense legal scrutiny. The statement, delivered in a candid interview shortly after his release from custody on March 19, 2026, underscores a deeply polarising chapter in Nigeria’s political and judicial landscape that continues to capture national attention.
In the interview, Malami — flanked by supporters and addressing the media in Hausa — said he stood firmly by his record in government, describing his tenure and recent ordeals as part of “God’s will.” Speaking hours after regaining his freedom on bail, the senior lawyer affirmed that he would vigorously contest allegations against him and defended the decisions he made while heading the nation’s justice ministry. He said he had no regrets regarding what he did during his time as a minister, adding that his experiences in detention had strengthened, rather than weakened, his resolve.
Malami’s remarks come amid one of the most high‑profile legal challenges in recent Nigerian history. He, his wife Bashir Asabe, and his son Abdulaziz are currently facing a 16‑count money laundering charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. Prosecutors allege that public funds were misappropriated during his time as Nigeria’s chief law officer. Malami has entered a plea of not guilty to all counts, and he was recently rearrested and remanded to Kuje Correctional Centre after previously being granted bail.
In an earlier court ruling on February 27, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail in the sum of ₦200 million each for Malami and his son in relation to separate terrorism‑related charges filed by the Department of State Services. He has now met those bail conditions and regained his liberty.
During the interview, Malami went further than just asserting his innocence. He criticised the security agencies involved in his detention and investigation, alleging that they violated his constitutional rights. According to him, searches of his homes and business premises were conducted without proper notice, and he was denied the right to be present when investigators combed through his properties. The former minister said this amounted to a breach of his rights and vowed to pursue justice within the framework of the law.
Analysts say these comments and the broader legal saga surrounding Malami reflect deeper tensions within Nigeria’s governance and justice systems. As attorney‑general, Malami wielded considerable authority over prosecutions and wielded it in several controversial cases, drawing criticism from anti‑corruption campaigners and lawmakers alike. Prior to his resignation, he had been accused of using his prosecutorial powers to intervene in corruption investigations involving high‑profile politicians and allies of Nigeria’s former administration. Those actions drew public scrutiny, though Malami consistently defended his decisions as lawful and in the national interest.
The former AGF’s tenure was marked by some significant achievements and notable controversies. Supporters point to his role in international legal victories and the publication of his memoir, which chronicles his time in office and frames his public service as a series of “trials and triumphs.” Critics, however, say his legacy is marred by allegations of interference in anti‑graft cases and failure to uphold prosecutorial independence.
Malami’s current legal troubles have also sparked debate about the politicisation of law enforcement institutions in Nigeria. Human rights advocates and observers argue that the handling of his case — including his initial arrest by the DSS, periods in EFCC custody and detention in Kuje — raises questions about due process and the rule of law, regardless of the merits of the charges. Meanwhile, opponents say his alleged misconduct demands full accountability under the constitution.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Malami used the interview to project confidence and resilience. He framed his ordeal as a test that he believes he will ultimately overcome, asserting that his faith and legal team will see him through. Observers say this posture is as much about public perception as it is about legal strategy, given the intense media attention and political implications of his case.
Reactions across Nigeria’s political spectrum have been mixed. Some commentators argue that Malami’s statement of having “no regrets” is an effort to shore up support among his political base ahead of a potentially lengthy court battle. Others see it as a bold affirmation of personal conviction in the face of adversity, reflecting a belief that his actions as a public official were justified and beneficial to the nation.
Legal experts consulted by various news organisations stress that the outcome of Malami’s trials will be pivotal in shaping future expectations of accountability and transparency among Nigeria’s top public officials. The cases could set important precedents for how alleged financial misconduct and abuse of office are prosecuted, especially when they involve former holders of the nation’s highest legal authority.
For now, Malami’s days are likely to remain dominated by court appearances, legal briefs and public debate over his legacy. Whatever the eventual verdicts, his recent statements have already become a defining moment in a career that has been at the centre of Nigeria’s legal and political arenas for more than a decade.
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