Sani Haruna
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kebbi State chapter, has strongly condemned the detention of its leader and former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The party’s state chairman, Engr. Sufyan Bala, made the condemnation during a press conference held on Thursday in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital.
According to Bala, the briefing was convened to draw the attention of the people of Kebbi State, democratic stakeholders across Nigeria and the international community to what he described as a breach of the rule of law by the EFCC.
“It is evident that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has graduated from being a law enforcement agency to becoming the law itself,”
The ADC chairman demanded the immediate release of Malami, stressing that while the former minister should not be treated above the law, he should also not be treated below it. He added that the EFCC had not formally accused Malami of any offence despite public insinuations.
Bala noted that the EFCC is a creation of law and must operate strictly within the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other enabling statutes governing law enforcement agencies.
He further stated that members of the ADC in Kebbi State have resolved to remain steadfast in the party, which he described as a platform for national redemption, despite what he called intimidation and abuse of power.
The party warned against any attempt by individuals or groups to deny citizens their constitutional rights, insisting that democracy cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear, intimidation and lawlessness.
The ADC members also condemned what they described as the “illegal and undue detention” of Abubakar Malami and called for his immediate release in line with constitutional provisions.
They cited Section 35(4) of the 1999 Constitution, which stipulates conditions for lawful detention, urging the EFCC to adhere strictly to the rule of law.