Human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has condemned opposition parties for what he described as their unwarranted attacks on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following the commission’s recent actions involving former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN.
In a statement to journalists on Monday, Adeyanju expressed disappointment with the opposition, urging them to uphold justice and support anti-corruption efforts rather than undermining Nigeria’s key anti-graft institutions.
According to Adeyanju, opposition parties should champion accountability and demand transparency from public office holders, regardless of political affiliation.
“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. “You cannot claim to desire a better Nigeria while defending individuals facing serious allegations of corruption. What is required is a consistent commitment to accountability and the rule of law.”
Adeyanju noted that the allegations against Malami warrant thorough investigation by the appropriate authorities. “What the opposition should be demanding is a transparent and comprehensive inquiry, not public attacks on the EFCC or attempts to discredit its actions,” he added.
He further called on political actors to avoid efforts to vilify the commission, stressing that the EFCC must be allowed to carry out its mandate professionally and without interference. Citing the agency’s handling of other high-profile corruption cases, Adeyanju emphasized that no one should be exempt from lawful scrutiny.
Concluding his remarks, the activist reiterated the importance of equal application of the law, insisting that the consistent enforcement of accountability and the rule of law is essential for Nigeria to achieve meaningful progress.
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