Police Take Over Malami’s Hotel in Kebbi Amid EFCC Money Laundering Probe

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have officially taken control of the Azbir Hotel and Azbir Arena in Kebbi State. These properties belong to the former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN. Consequently, this move signals a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation into the former minister’s financial dealings.

Why the Police Took Over the Property

The sudden takeover is linked to a wider investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Currently, the anti-graft agency is probing Malami over serious allegations involving money laundering and abuse of office.

Last month, on November 28, the EFCC invited the former AGF for questioning to clarify certain financial discrepancies. Following this, the situation intensified when Malami raised an alarm about coordinated raids. He described the actions of the EFCC as “threatening” after operatives searched his private residences and offices in both Abuja and Kebbi State.

Reactions to the Malami Investigation

As the police take over Malami’s hotel, public reactions have been swift and sharp. Josef Onoh, a former spokesman for President Bola Tinubu, recently criticized the former minister. He accused Malami of hypocrisy and suggested that the former AGF showed a disregard for the rule of law during his own time in office.

Furthermore, Onoh released a statement urging Malami to stop his attempts to “blackmail” the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede. Instead, he advised the former minister to submit himself to the investigation to clear his name.

What This Means for the Former AGF

The occupation of Azbir Hotel and Azbir Arena represents a major turning point in Malami’s legal battles. Although the former AGF has expressed his concerns over the legality of these raids, the presence of police operatives suggests that the federal government is determined to pursue the case to its conclusion.

Key Details of the Case:

• Target: Abubakar Malami, SAN (Former Attorney-General).

• Assets Affected: Azbir Hotel and Azbir Arena, Kebbi.

• Core Allegations: Money laundering and abuse of office.

• Lead Agency: EFCC, supported by the Nigeria Police Force.

Ultimately, the public awaits further statements from both the police and Malami’s legal team. Because of the high-profile nature of the suspect, this case is expected to dominate Nigerian headlines for the coming weeks.