Immediate past Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has declared that he has no regrets over his actions in office, following his release from custody amid ongoing legal battles.
Malami, who is facing a 16-count charge of alleged money laundering alongside his wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, Abdulaziz Malami, said he remains resolute and ready to defend himself against the allegations.
The trio had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The former minister’s legal troubles deepened after he was rearrested on January 19 by operatives of the Department of State Services, shortly after his initial release from Kuje Prison.
Two days later, Malami accused the security agency of denying him access to his family and legal team.
However, on February 27, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted him and his son bail in the sum of N200 million each over alleged terrorism-related offences. He has since met the bail conditions and regained his freedom.
Speaking in an interview with DCL Hausa published on Wednesday, Malami described his experience in custody as an act of divine will.
“I have spent time in EFCC custody, Kuje Prison, and with the DSS. I believe it is all God’s will, and I accept it, but I will defend myself against the allegations,” he said.
He also alleged that his fundamental rights were violated during the investigation, claiming that security agencies carried out searches on his properties without his knowledge.
“They violated my rights by searching my houses and business premises without notifying me during the investigation,” he said.
According to him, the Constitution guarantees his right to be present during such operations to monitor proceedings and know what items are being sought or taken.
Despite the ongoing trial and his time in custody, Malami maintained a defiant stance, insisting that he has no regrets over decisions taken during his tenure as Nigeria’s chief law officer.
“I have no regrets regarding what I did during my time as a minister,” he said.
