Former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has challenged a forfeiture order obtained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, insisting that the funds and assets in question were lawfully acquired, Peak Newspaper reports
In court filings, Malami said the money, including about N958 million received as gifts, came from legitimate sources and was properly declared. He argued that the EFCC failed to establish any link between the assets and proceeds of crime.
Malami maintained that gifts received while in public office were not unlawful under Nigerian law, provided they were declared and not tied to official favours. He also cited income from legal practice and other lawful earnings as part of his defence.
The EFCC had sought forfeiture on grounds of suspected illicit enrichment. The case now rests with the court to determine whether the agency met the legal threshold required for permanent forfeiture.
