KEBBI APC, ADC CAMPS CLASH OVER MALAMI’S GOVERNORSHIP BID

The camps of Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris and former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, have continued to exchange accusations over Malami’s suitability to contest the 2027 governorship election.

Idris’ Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Idris, argued that the governor’s background and record in public service placed him in a stronger position politically than Malami.

In a statement titled “Kebbi 2027: Why Comrade Governor Idris Stands Head and Shoulders Above Malami,” the governor’s aide highlighted Idris’ career as a teacher, former National President of the Nigerian Union of Teachers and former official of the Nigeria Labour Congress.

He also pointed to infrastructure and socio-economic projects undertaken by the Idris administration, describing the government’s record as significant.

The statement further raised questions about legal proceedings involving properties linked to Malami, who served as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice between 2015 and 2023.

In July, the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of 48 properties linked to Malami, members of his family and companies associated with the assets. Malami has rejected wrongdoing and said he has instructed his lawyers to challenge aspects of the ruling at the Court of Appeal.

The ADC and Malami have also disputed the use of the forfeiture proceedings as a political argument against his candidacy. The party has previously accused the Federal Government of using state institutions to intimidate its candidate, while Malami has maintained that the legal proceedings should not be treated as a criminal conviction.

Malami emerged as the ADC governorship candidate for Kebbi in May after being affirmed as the party’s consensus candidate. He is expected to challenge Governor Idris, who is seeking another term under the All Progressives Congress.

The exchange between both camps is part of the growing political contest in Kebbi ahead of the 2027 governorship election.