The Kebbi State Government has strongly rebuffed former Attorney General Abubakar Malami’s governorship aspirations, calling them “dead on arrival” and labeling his recent political moves as a desperate attempt to remain politically relevant.
In a statement released on Monday, the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy to Governor Nasir Idris, Abdullahi Idris Zuru, described Malami’s defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a clear indication of his frustration over the growing support enjoyed by Governor Idris within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Malami’s decision to abandon the APC for a party driven by personal ambition rather than ideology is a knee-jerk reaction to the overwhelming endorsement Governor Idris has received for a second term from APC stakeholders in Kebbi,” Zuru stated.
According to him, the political climate in the state has evolved, with citizens now prioritizing tangible results over empty rhetoric. “The people of Kebbi are politically enlightened. They no longer fall for hollow promises — they want performance, and that is what Governor Idris is delivering,” he asserted.
Zuru emphasized that Governor Idris continues to receive strong backing from across the political spectrum, including the state’s three serving senators, several federal and state legislators, and even former opposition figures.
Taking a swipe at Malami’s eight-year tenure as Minister of Justice, Zuru said it left little or no benefit for Kebbi State. “There is no significant legacy he can point to. Any gains made during his time largely served individuals close to him or ended up outside the state,” he said.
He also criticized Malami’s recent cash handout program — allegedly worth $300,000 — calling it a politically motivated gimmick cloaked as a loan scheme.
In contrast, Zuru outlined the achievements of Governor Idris, which include the empowerment of over 10,000 small businesses with more than N10 billion, distribution of free farming tools and fertilizers, and substantial investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
“Governor Idris has demonstrated real, measurable progress,” he stated. “Malami’s political ambition lacks both credibility and substance. Aspiring leaders should focus on showcasing their achievements instead of resorting to blackmail and unfounded claims.”
