‘You see how it feels to be persecuted’ — Sowore confronts Malami
Activist Omoyele Sowore engaged in a dramatic exchange with former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday. In a viral video of the encounter, Sowore directly addressed Malami regarding the former minister’s current legal struggles. He drew sharp comparisons between Malami’s present prosecution and his actions during the administration of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The confrontation took place as Malami faces serious charges filed by the EFCC and the DSS, including money laundering and unlawful possession of firearms. Sowore utilized the moment to highlight what he described as the irony of Malami being caught in the same judicial system he once oversaw. He remarked: “You see how it feels now to be persecuted. When you were with Buhari, you were bragging. We warned you then that there was failure in the justice system, but you didn’t listen, and now the system is dealing with you.”
In a surprising turn, the activist offered the embattled former official a symbolic gesture of joining his “Revolution Now” movement. Sowore presented his signature headgear to Malami, stating: “I want to give you my cap. This is a revolutionary cap.” While the move drew laughter from observers within the court premises, it served to emphasize Sowore’s critique of the current political establishment.
Despite the pointed nature of the exchange, Sowore acknowledged Malami’s visible resilience during his court appearance. He noted that even those who once held immense power are not immune to the “oppressors” within the system. Reflecting on his own stance, Sowore said: “As far as the Nigerian project is concerned, no matter how powerful you people are, we will never support you. We are resilient till tomorrow.”
Malami, maintaining his composure throughout the encounter, offered a brief defense of his character and his commitment to the legal process. He dismissed any suggestion that the current charges had broken his spirit, insisting that he remains focused on clearing his name. He responded: “I can never be down. Well, I have been attending all my court sittings. I will keep attending. And I remain strong.”
The former Attorney-General is currently fighting to overturn an order for the temporary forfeiture of his assets, which the government alleges were acquired through unlawful means. He continues to maintain that his possessions were gathered through lawful channels during his time in office. As the trial proceeds, the interaction remains a focal point for Nigerians debating the shifting tides of political power and accountability.
