Youths in Kebbi State on Sunday took to the streets to demand the release of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), who has remained in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) since early December 2025.
Malami, who served as Nigeria’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice under former President Muhammadu Buhari until 2023, is being investigated over allegations bordering on money laundering, terrorism financing, and other financial improprieties. The EFCC has, however, not yet filed formal charges against him.
During the protest, the youths gathered around strategic public buildings, carrying placards that described Malami as a symbol of pride for Kebbi State. They appealed to the authorities to respect his rights and ensure a fair and transparent investigation, insisting that prolonged detention without charges was unjust.
Reacting to the demonstration, the Kebbi State Government distanced itself from the protest, clarifying that it neither sponsored nor endorsed the action. Meanwhile, a court recently declined Malami’s bail application after ruling that the conditions for his release had not been met.
The situation has continued to generate political reactions nationwide. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) described the ongoing investigation as a witch-hunt, while some observers questioned why Malami, who had previously highlighted security challenges such as banditry in Kebbi, was being subjected to what they described as excessive scrutiny.
As debates intensify, the case underscores growing tensions surrounding Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, public accountability, and the balance between law enforcement actions and the protection of individual rights.