Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and officials of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) on Friday clashed at the Federal High Court in Abuja over security arrangements during the trial of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
According to Leadership, the confrontation reportedly stemmed from a disagreement between the two agencies over which of them should take charge of security during the court proceedings involving the former minister.
It was gathered that tensions escalated as officials from both sides laid claim to controlling access and security at the court premises, particularly at the entrance to the courtroom.
Sources at the court said the situation degenerated to the point where officials from both agencies allegedly threatened to shoot each other over the dispute.
As a result of the standoff, journalists were subjected to additional screening, with both the EFCC and NCoS insisting on clearing members of the press before granting access to the court.
Some journalists were eventually denied entry into the courtroom, with officials claiming that the courtroom was already filled to capacity.
Recall that on December 30, the Federal High Court ordered that Malami be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre until January 2, when his bail application is scheduled to be heard.
Malami is standing trial alongside his son, Abdullaziz, and one Asabe Bashir over allegations of fraud.