Tension gripped Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, after suspected political thugs attacked the convoy of former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), leaving at least 10 vehicles vandalized and several of his supporters injured.
The incident occurred along Old NITEL Road, shortly after Malami returned from a condolence visit to the family of the late Chief Imam of Dr. Bello Haliru Jumu’ah Mosque. Security operatives were swiftly deployed to the scene, the state APC headquarters, and Malami’s residence to forestall further violence.
Malami Points Fingers at APC
Malami, who now leads the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kebbi, blamed the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the attack.
“It’s a painful act clearly linked to politics. Some thugs came out from the APC state headquarters armed with dangerous weapons and stones, attacking and destroying our convoy,” he alleged.
The former minister vowed that his political movement in Kebbi State would not be intimidated. “When it comes to politics in Kebbi State, there is no retreat, no surrender,” Malami declared.
APC Denies Involvement
In a swift response, APC’s state publicity secretary, Isa Assalafy, distanced the ruling party from the violence, describing the incident as unacceptable.
“Kebbi is a peaceful state. No government that enjoys massive support from the people and is confident of victory in 2027 would want the peace of the state disrupted,” Assalafy stated.
He further accused security operatives attached to Malami’s convoy of firing shots during the confrontation, which, according to him, worsened the situation.
Police Step In
Following an emergency security meeting, Commissioner of Police Bello M. Sani confirmed an investigation into the violence and issued a stern warning to political actors.
He cautioned political parties against holding unauthorized gatherings or campaigns, stressing that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had not yet lifted the ban on political activities.
