Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), on Tuesday alleged that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission forcefully evicted him and his family from their Abuja residence amid ongoing court proceedings over the property.
Malami made the claim while addressing journalists at a press briefing, stating that EFCC officials initially stormed the residence on Monday and returned on Tuesday with armed operatives to complete the takeover.
He said the commission carried out the action without obtaining a court order authorising the sealing of the property, eviction of occupants, or appointment of a receiver manager.
According to him, “Without recourse to the court and without any order authorising eviction or takeover, EFCC operatives forcefully removed my family and took possession of the house.”
The former AGF identified the property as his residence located at No. 2, Koronakh Close, off Amazon Street, Maitama, Abuja.
Malami explained that although an interim forfeiture order had been granted on January 6, 2026, the directive did not empower the commission to evict occupants or assume immediate control of the property.
He added that he had already challenged the forfeiture order at the Federal High Court, with the matter adjourned till April 20, 2026.
The ex-minister argued that with the case pending before the court, the anti-graft agency ought to refrain from taking unilateral steps capable of undermining judicial proceedings.
“It is improper for any party in a matter before the court to take actions that could render the judicial process ineffective,” he said.
Malami also faulted the commission for allegedly sidestepping due process, stressing that enforcement of court orders rests solely with court-appointed officials such as bailiffs and sheriffs.
He described the eviction as unlawful and inconsistent with established legal procedures in the country.
The former minister further claimed that the EFCC did not secure a specific eviction order nor involve court officials before executing the action.
He hinted at possible political undertones surrounding the incident, noting that it occurred shortly after his release from detention and during a period he had been receiving visits and support from associates.
While stopping short of directly accusing the commission of political persecution, Malami said the timing could give rise to such interpretations.
He, however, assured that he would seek redress through legal means.
“We will pursue all lawful and judicial options available to challenge this action,” he said.
Efforts to get a response from his counsel in the forfeiture case, J.B. Daudu, were unsuccessful as calls to his phone were not returned as of the time of filing this report.
