Human rights lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has criticised opposition parties for their reaction to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, saying their responses risk undermining Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
In a statement to journalists on Monday, Adeyanju expressed disappointment with what he described as opposition attacks on the EFCC instead of constructive engagement with the agency’s mandate. He argued that political actors must support accountability institutions rather than question their integrity based on partisan interests.
Adeyanju insisted that opposition parties should champion the fight against corruption across all political lines, urging them to demand transparent and comprehensive investigations of public office holders, whether they belong to the ruling party or not.
“I am disturbed by what I see as hypocrisy in the reaction of some opposition figures to the arrest of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN,” he said, adding that defending individuals facing serious allegations undermines the rule of law.
The activist reiterated that allegations against Malami should be investigated thoroughly by the appropriate authorities, and that public attacks on the EFCC do little to advance justice. He called on political actors to encourage the commission to carry out its mandate professionally and without interference.
Adeyanju also cited the EFCC’s role in other high-profile cases as evidence of its responsibility to pursue corruption allegations irrespective of a subject’s political affiliation. He stressed that no one should be shielded from lawful scrutiny.
He concluded by urging equal application of the law and insisting that adherence to accountability and the rule of law is essential for Nigeria’s progress.
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