Aliyu Usman, Birnin Kebbi
The Bureau News reports that the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy to the Kebbi State Governor, Abdullahi Idris Zuru, has lambasted former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), over claims that Governor Nasir Idris allegedly hired political thugs from neighboring states.
Zuru dismissed the allegations as baseless and described Malami as a “confused new-breed politician” whose desperation to undermine Governor Idris and frustrate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 had pushed him into political blackmail.
“It is common knowledge that some selfish politicians in Kebbi and across Nigeria are trying to adulterate our democracy with hooliganism. But Nigerians are more aware than ever and will continue to support leaders with credibility and proven track records,” Zuru stated.
Kebbi Governor’s Record Defended
Zuru highlighted Governor Idris’ journey from trade unionism into politics, recalling his tenure as President of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) and later as Deputy National President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC).
According to him, Governor Idris’ stewardship since 2023 has delivered unprecedented infrastructure, urban renewal projects, and economic empowerment programs, while also completing abandoned projects from previous administrations.
Stakeholders in Kebbi, he said, have recognized these achievements, which led to defections of opposition lawmakers into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and a unanimous vote of confidence in both Tinubu and Idris ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Malami Accused of Smear Campaign
Zuru alleged that Malami, frustrated after losing grip on APC structures in Kebbi, defected to the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) and anointed himself its governorship candidate despite the party’s weak presence in the state.
He further accused Malami of bankrolling media propaganda, smear campaigns, and political hooliganism, adding that reports had surfaced of Malami allegedly hiring armed thugs from neighboring states to disrupt political activities in Kebbi.
During one such incident, Zuru claimed, Malami’s thugs accompanied him on a condolence visit to the Emir of Gwandu’s palace, where they intimidated residents and vandalized APC property.
APC Stakeholders Demand Malami’s Arrest
In reaction, APC stakeholders, including serving and former lawmakers, led by Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero, held a press conference calling for Malami’s arrest and prosecution for what they described as baseless allegations capable of threatening peace and stability in Kebbi.
Zuru concluded by emphasizing that Malami’s “selfish and unpatriotic ambitions” cannot be compared with Governor Idris’ humility, generosity, and commitment to Kebbi’s development.
