The Abubakar Malami Youth Peace Association (AYPA) has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and some media organisations of selectively reporting proceedings in the ongoing trial involving former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the group alleged that certain aspects of the court proceedings were being highlighted while other details that could provide broader context to the case were being omitted from public reports.
AYPA expressed concern that what it described as one-sided reporting could influence public perception and undermine confidence in the judicial process. The association urged media organisations to adhere to the principles of fairness, accuracy and balance in their coverage of legal proceedings.
According to the group, reports focusing solely on claims made by the prosecution without adequately reflecting arguments or responses from the defence risk creating a distorted narrative around the case. It maintained that all parties involved in the trial deserve fair representation in media coverage until the court reaches a final determination.
The association also called on the EFCC to ensure that information released to the public regarding the case remains factual, comprehensive and consistent with the proceedings before the court. AYPA argued that anti-corruption investigations and prosecutions should be conducted in a manner that respects due process and the presumption of innocence guaranteed under the law.
Malami, who served as Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice under former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been the subject of investigations and legal scrutiny over matters linked to his tenure in office. The ongoing proceedings have attracted significant public attention due to his prominent role in the previous administration.
The EFCC has yet to publicly respond to the allegations of selective reporting raised by the association. Likewise, the media organisations referenced in the statement had not issued official reactions at the time of filing this report.
Legal analysts note that high-profile cases often generate intense public interest and media attention, making balanced and accurate reporting essential to maintaining public confidence in the justice system. They stress that allegations and claims presented during court proceedings remain subject to judicial determination until a verdict is delivered.
As the trial continues, stakeholders have called for restraint in public commentary and urged all parties to allow the court process to run its course without undue influence or speculation.
