Malami Defends Buhari’s Anti-Corruption Legacy, Says Over $2 Billion Recovered

Nigeria’s former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has defended the anti-corruption record of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, countering recent criticisms that question his administration’s commitment to fighting graft.

Speaking during an appearance on Arise News Tuesday night, Malami asserted that corruption did not thrive under Buhari’s leadership.

“During President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, corruption was not thriving at all,” Malami said. “If you look at high-profile corruption cases, the administration secured thousands of convictions.”

He revealed that the Buhari government recovered more than $2 billion in looted public funds, adding that significant reforms were introduced to curb financial mismanagement.

“The Treasury Single Account (TSA) and the Bank Verification Number (BVN) were part of structural changes that gave the government more visibility and control over its finances,” Malami noted.

He also pointed to international recognition of Buhari’s anti-corruption efforts, including honors from the African Union, which named him Africa’s anti-corruption champion, and commendations from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Malami’s remarks come as debates continue over Buhari’s legacy, particularly in the area of governance and integrity. The late president is being remembered by supporters as one of Nigeria’s most vocal leaders in the fight against corruption.