‘The system has turned’ — Sowore, Malami share lighthearted banter at court

WHAT appeared to be a chance meeting turned into a moment of playful exchange as human rights activist, Mr Omoyele Sowore, and ex-Attorney General of the Federation, Mr Abubakar Malami, traded remarks at a court lobby in Abuja, reflecting on their past encounters during the administration of Muhammadu Buhari.

Malami, a minister of justice from 2015 to 2023, is currently facing a 16-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

On April 15, the Nigerian government amended the charges against him and his son, Abdulaziz, removing the allegation related to terrorism financing.

Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters, was also entangled in legal battles during Buhari’s tenure. He faced treason-related charges after calling for protests and was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) on August 3, 2019. He spent 124 days in detention over allegations including treasonable felony, money laundering, and insulting the president.

READ ALSO: Police arrest activist Sowore as Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team quits case

After his release, he was rearrested in December 2019 and continued to face legal proceedings into early 2021.

A lighter exchange at the court

During their brief encounter, Sowore jokingly reminded Malami of the past.

“When you were in Buhari’s government, you said I committed treason. See how the system is dealing with you now,” he said, in a tone that drew laughter.

The activist also offered Malami a symbolic ‘Revolution Now’ cap, suggesting they now share a similar perspective.

“We want to recruit you now that you know there is failure in the system,” Sowore added.

Malami declined the cap with a smile, replying, “I have my own cap.”

Back-and-forth remarks

Sowore continued in a jovial manner, insisting that the situation had come full circle.

“The system is dealing with you now… we are now on the same side. Your table has turned to our side,” he said, laughing.

READ ALSO: EFCC marks Abuja properties linked to Malami for forfeiture, posts ‘keep off’ notice

Malami responded calmly, pushing back without escalation. “I can never be down as far as Nigeria is concerned. The table has its own wheel,” he said.

He also confirmed that he still attends events of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), though he noted he missed a recent summit in Ibadan.

“Tables keep turning, and I will keep sitting by the table,” Malami added.