By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Groups (NCSPG) has condemned the alleged continued detention of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), describing the action as unlawful and a violation of his constitutional rights.The coalition made the declaration on Sunday in Kaduna during a press conference held at Areewa House, where it accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of detaining Malami without due process.Addressing journalists, the President of the coalition, Comrade Musa Mohammed, alleged that Malami had been held for several days without being formally charged, arraigned before a court, or granted full access to legal process.
According to Mohammed, the alleged detention contravenes Sections 35 and 36 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee personal liberty and the right to fair hearing. “It is appalling that a former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice is allegedly being detained without charge or trial. This represents a clear abuse of power and a dangerous disregard for the rule of law,” Mohammed said.The coalition questioned the timing of the alleged arrest, suggesting it may be politically motivated, particularly in light of Malami’s recent defection to another political party. “Why is the EFCC acting at this moment? Is this a genuine anti-corruption effort, or a political witch-hunt disguised as justice?” he asked.
The NCSPG further claimed that no prima facie case had been established against Malami, noting that there has been no public filing of charges, court appearance, or opportunity for the former minister to defend himself.“This is not justice; it is an arbitrary exercise of power that undermines democratic principles,” the coalition stated.Warning of possible mass action, the group said it would mobilise nationwide protests, petition international human rights organisations, and pursue legal remedies if Malami is not released immediately.
“A country that detains its former leaders without due process is drifting dangerously towards authoritarianism,” Mohammed warned.The coalition described Malami as “a patriot, not a convict,” and urged the EFCC and the Federal Government to uphold constitutional provisions and democratic norms in their operations.
Among its key demands, the NCSPG called for the immediate and unconditional release of Abubakar Malami, a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his alleged detention, and strict adherence to the rule of law.The group also appealed to Nigerians, legal practitioners, and civil society and human rights organisations to speak out in defence of justice, constitutionalism, and due process.
