Malami Accuses EFCC of Forcible Eviction from Abuja Residence Amid Legal Dispute

Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has accused operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of unlawfully evicting him and his family from their residence in Abuja, despite an ongoing court case over the property.

Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Malami said EFCC officials stormed his Maitama home on Monday and returned the following day with armed reinforcements to complete the takeover. The property, located in one of Abuja’s most exclusive districts, has become the centre of a legal dispute following an interim forfeiture order issued earlier this year.

According to Malami, the January 6, 2026 court order did not authorise eviction or immediate possession of the property. He maintained that he had already challenged the forfeiture at the Federal High Court, with the matter adjourned to April 20.

“It is only logical that parties before a court should refrain from actions that could undermine the judicial process,” he said, describing the EFCC’s action as premature and contrary to established legal procedure.

The former minister argued that enforcement of court orders lies strictly with court-appointed officials, such as bailiffs, and not litigants or enforcement agencies acting independently. He described the eviction as “legally unprecedented” and vowed to seek redress through the courts.

The EFCC has not issued an official response as of the time of filing this report, but the commission has in recent years intensified efforts to recover assets suspected to have been acquired through corrupt means. Interim forfeiture orders are commonly used in such cases, allowing the government to temporarily take control of properties pending final court decisions.

However, legal experts note that disputes often arise over the interpretation and enforcement of such orders, particularly where occupants challenge the forfeiture.

Malami also hinted at possible political undertones, noting that the incident occurred shortly after his release from detention and during a period of increased political engagement.

The development adds another layer to Nigeria’s ongoing anti-corruption drive, raising fresh questions about due process, enforcement procedures and the balance between asset recovery and the rule of law.