The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has made further clarifications on investigations concerning the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari.
Malami fielded questions from State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
He said it is mischievous to insinuate that he is trying to exonerate Abba Kyari, clarifying that he only requested an enhancement of investigations.
He added that Abba Kyari is facing trial before Justice Inyang Ekwo of a Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of the illegal drug business.
“Fundamentally, after the investigation, when the report is presented to the Office of the Attorney-General, the Attorney-General will review same to see whether there is need for enhancement of investigation along the line as it relates to certain key elements of the offence.’’
Malami said that allegations were made, investigations were conducted, and then requests for further enhancement of investigation were indeed made by the Office of the Attorney-General.
“For the purpose of covering the field in arriving at an informed decision one way or the other.
“So, while this process of correspondence between the Office of the Attorney-General and indeed, the Police is ongoing, it is indeed, a work-in-progress and never a conclusive position.
“So, that is what I can tell you clearly; there was indeed a request for investigation; interim investigation report was presented to the Office of the Attorney-General; and the Attorney-General requested for further enhancement into the investigation, and highlighted some areas in respect of which enhancement of investigation is required.
“So, it is indeed premature or perhaps, mischievous for any conclusion to have been driven in the direction of exonerating or otherwise of the reliability or responsibility relating thereto.’’
– Media Report