The Department of State Services released former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami on Tuesday. Security agents had detained the senior advocate for weeks over allegations linked to money laundering and abuse of office.
Malami walked free after he met fresh bail conditions set by a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi visited Abubakar Malami hours after the release. The meeting took place at Malami’s private residence in Abuja on Tuesday afternoon. Eyewitnesses and social media footage confirmed the closed-door discussion.
Peter Obi conveyed solidarity with Abubakar Malami over his recent legal ordeal. Sources close to the meeting said Obi condemned the prolonged detention and described it as part of a pattern of political persecution against opposition figures.
He told Malami that justice must prevail and that no one should face harassment for holding different political views.
Moreover, the two leaders discussed broader national issues and the political landscape ahead of 2027. Abubakar Malami told Peter Obi that he remained committed to efforts aimed at changing the current administration.
Malami stated, “Justice will always prevail. There is no going back on our mission to send the APC packing at both state and federal levels.”
Peter Obi welcomed the release and reiterated his earlier public criticism of the Tinubu government’s handling of detentions involving Malami and former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai. He had earlier described such actions as the use of criminal prosecution as a weapon against opponents.
The visit fuelled speculation about possible coalitions among opposition leaders. Analysts noted that the swift meeting signalled growing consultations across party lines. However, neither Peter Obi nor Abubakar Malami issued an official joint statement after the encounter.
