Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of unlawfully attempting to take over his Abuja residence and evict his family without a valid court order.
Malami made the allegation on Tuesday while addressing journalists in Abuja, describing the commission’s actions as “extrajudicial, unlawful, and illegitimate,” especially as the matter remains before the court.
The controversy follows a move by the EFCC to mark his Maitama residence for enforcement of an interim forfeiture order reportedly granted by a Federal High Court on January 6, 2026.
However, Malami argued that the court order did not authorise the immediate takeover of the property or the eviction of occupants.
“There were no clear directives for the premises to be seized or for anyone to be evicted,” he said, insisting that the commission acted beyond its legal powers.
According to Malami, he has already filed an application challenging the forfeiture order, with the case scheduled for hearing on April 20, 2026.
He maintained that the EFCC should have refrained from any enforcement action pending the outcome of the case.
The former minister further alleged that operatives initially attempted to take possession of the property on Monday but returned the following day with more armed personnel to complete the process.
He claimed that his family members were forcefully removed from the residence during the operation.
Malami also questioned the legality of the EFCC’s approach, arguing that only court bailiffs not parties involved in a case are authorised to enforce court orders.
“Execution of court orders is the exclusive duty of court officials. What we are seeing is a clear breach of due process,” he stated.
He warned that such actions could undermine the authority of the court, especially as a hearing date has already been fixed.
While stopping short of making direct accusations, Malami suggested that the timing of the operation coming shortly after his release from detention and a wave of visits from political allies could raise suspicions of political motives.
Despite his concerns, he said he would continue to pursue justice through lawful and judicial means, urging authorities to respect due process and allow the court to determine the matter.
The EFCC has maintained that its actions were part of standard legal procedures following the forfeiture order, setting the stage for a legal showdown over the disputed property.
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