Supporters of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Chika Malami (SAN), raise concerns over his continued detention, describing it as a threat to Nigeria’s justice system and democratic principles. The Malami Support Organisation (MSO) says the situation undermines due process, constitutional safeguards, and respect for the rule of law.
Speaking at the MSO office in Birnin Kebbi, the group’s Director of Strategy and Communication, Mallam Saidu Atiku Abubakar, says the arrest and prolonged detention of Malami send worrying signals about the state of justice in the country, Mediaplusng.com reports. He insists that Nigeria remains a constitutional democracy governed by law, not by executive discretion or political considerations.
Abubakar states that the continued detention raises questions about compliance with the 1999 Constitution, especially provisions that protect personal liberty and fair hearing. He argues that any action taken outside these legal boundaries weakens public confidence in democratic institutions and the justice system.
He calls on civil society organisations, the Nigerian Bar Association, human rights groups, and pro-democracy advocates to closely monitor the situation. He also urges international human rights bodies and diplomatic missions to pay attention to what he describes as a growing pattern of selective justice and political pressure in Nigeria, Mediaplusng.com understands.
According to him, Section 35 of the Constitution guarantees the right to personal liberty, allowing detention only under clearly defined legal conditions. He adds that Section 36 provides for fair hearing and presumption of innocence, stressing that allegations should be tested in a competent court of law, not through prolonged detention or public narratives.
Abubakar warns that using anti-corruption or national interest claims to bypass constitutional protections sets a dangerous precedent. He says accountability must follow due process to remain credible and effective, noting that justice loses its meaning when applied unevenly.
The MSO spokesperson further alleges that the circumstances surrounding Malami’s detention suggest selective enforcement rather than impartial justice. He argues that when state institutions appear tough on perceived political opponents while others escape similar scrutiny, public trust in law enforcement agencies erodes.
He references Section 17 of the Constitution, which promotes social justice and equality before the law, stating that selective application of justice contradicts this principle. According to him, democracy thrives only when laws apply equally to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
Abubakar expresses concern over what he describes as the increasing normalisation of “weaponised accountability” under the current political climate. He says a system that punishes some while protecting others weakens democratic foundations and fuels public distrust.
He adds that the issue goes beyond Malami as an individual, noting that the broader concern is the direction of governance in Nigeria. According to him, the country faces a critical question of whether it will continue to uphold the rule of law or drift towards governance driven by fear and intimidation.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, Abubakar reminds authorities that the primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of the people. He argues that this responsibility does not include suppressing political opposition or discouraging dissent through legal pressure.
The Malami Support Organisation reaffirms its commitment to constitutionalism, democratic accountability, and peaceful engagement. The group insists that intimidation cannot silence legitimate political aspirations and civic participation.
The organisation calls on law enforcement and security agencies to strictly observe constitutional provisions in handling the case. It urges respect for personal liberty, fair hearing, and the presumption of innocence as enshrined in the Constitution.
Finally, the MSO appeals to its members and supporters to remain calm, law-abiding, and resolute. It encourages peaceful and democratic action in defending constitutional values, stressing that strong institutions, not selective justice, remain the foundation of a stable and democratic Nigeria.
