The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has directed former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), to report to its headquarters in Abuja every day throughout the month of December as part of an ongoing investigation into the handling of an alleged $490 million Abacha loot.

A senior EFCC source told Vanguard on Monday that Malami’s daily appearance is a strict condition attached to his release after he honoured an invitation from the commission on Saturday, November 28. His international passport has also been seized to prevent him from leaving the country during the investigation.

According to the source, the intensive schedule reflects the volume of documents to be reviewed, the complexity of the case, and the seriousness of the allegations surrounding the repatriated funds secured through a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT).

“We seized his passport; it is normal procedure during investigations. He must report to the headquarters every day from Dec. 1 to Dec. 31. This is because of the volume of the investigation and the seriousness of the charges,” the source said.

Investigators are focused on establishing accountability for the recovered funds, demanding clarity from the former minister on the movement and utilisation of the $490 million.

“We did not say he stole money, but he must account for the loot. This is one of the issues he will clarify,” the EFCC source added.

The commission said it will refrain from public arguments and will make its findings known at the conclusion of the probe.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Mohammed Doka, Malami confirmed his appearance before the EFCC but dismissed the investigation as a “political witch-hunt.” He described the allegations as baseless, illogical, and assured that the facts would ultimately vindicate him.

Malami’s interrogation is expected to run daily until December 31.