By Ranti Thomas
Fresh developments have emerged challenging claims made by former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, regarding the revocation of his bail over attendance at a political event in Kebbi State. Contrary to reports circulating in the media, official documents reviewed by The Royal Times and Network Times paint a different picture, one that underscores compliance rather than restriction.
The records, comprising the provisional administrative bail and notice of compliance issued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), show no limitations on Malami’s involvement in political activities or interaction with the press. Granted on November 28, 2025, the bail was structured around procedural obligations connected to an ongoing investigation, rather than any political engagement, highlighting the discretionary and administrative nature of the release.
The bail was conditional on compliance with specific requirements, including the provision of two reliable sureties who are serving civil servants in federal ministries in Abuja. These sureties were required to submit detailed documentation, including appointment letters, letters of last promotion, staff identity cards, National Identification Numbers (NIN), recent passport photographs, and letters of introduction from their employers.
They were also expected to demonstrate ownership of property within the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), supported by valid Certificates of Occupancy. Additionally, Malami was required to deposit all international, official, or diplomatic passports with the Commission overseeing the investigation and to report regularly on specified dates and times until the case was concluded.
The bail conditions contained no mention of limitations on political activities or engagement with the media. Observers reviewing the documents note that claims of bail revocation or restrictions on political participation and media engagement are unsupported by the official records.
The records further indicate that Malami was initially scheduled to return for further interrogation on December 1, 2025, but requested a deferment citing ill-health in a letter dated December 4, 2025. Although no medical report or evidence was provided, the request was reportedly accommodated. He was subsequently invited again on December 8, 2025, pending fulfillment of the outstanding bail conditions.
Legal analysts stress that the conditions were procedural, focusing solely on ensuring compliance with administrative requirements and cooperation with the ongoing investigation. They caution public figures against misrepresenting the terms of their release.
The bail documents underscore that administrative bail is a discretionary measure designed to allow suspects temporary reprieve while investigations continue, contingent on meeting verifiable conditions. Sources close to the matter advise that Malami should prioritize fulfilling these requirements and cooperating with investigators, rather than circulating claims contradicted by the official bail papers.