Ola Olukoyede, chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has dismissed claims that the investigation of Abubakar Malami, former Attorney-General of the Federation, is driven by personal or political motives, stating that the case began long before he assumed office.
Speaking in an interview on Channels Television on Sunday, Olukoyede explained that the corruption allegations against Malami were already under investigation when he became EFCC chairman, stressing that he merely continued an existing process.
Read also: Adeleke rejects 8,452 Osun ghost workers claims, welcomes call for EFCC, ICPC review
In December 2025, the EFCC arraigned Malami before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations bordering on money laundering.
The former justice minister was arraigned alongside his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and his wife, Bashir Asabe, on a 16-count charge.
Malami has consistently argued that his arrest, investigation, and prosecution are politically motivated, particularly following his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He also called on Olukoyede to recuse himself from the case, citing claims that the EFCC chairman was indicted by the Justice Ayo Salami Judicial Commission of Inquiry.
Responding to the allegations, Olukoyede challenged those making the claims to publish the panel’s report if such an indictment truly exists.
According to him, his administration handled the matter with professionalism and thoroughness, ensuring that due process was followed at every stage.
“There is absolutely nothing personal about this case,” Olukoyede said. “For Nigeria to make progress, the fight against corruption must be conducted without political bias or partisanship, and that is the principle guiding our actions.”
He further explained that Malami’s case had been under investigation for more than two years, having been initiated under the previous EFCC leadership.
“The investigation file was already opened before I came into office,” he said. “Since assuming office, I have focused on ensuring that the investigation was comprehensive and properly conducted to establish the alleged offences.”
Read also: FULL LIST: Properties worth N213.2bn court ordered Ex-AGF Malami to forfeit
Olukoyede added that he does not understand why the matter is being portrayed as persecution, reiterating that the EFCC’s actions are based solely on evidence and due process.
“As for those alleging that I was indicted by the Justice Ayo Salami panel, the responsibility lies with them to publish the report for Nigerians to see,” he said.
