In a significant political development that could reshape the landscape of Kebbi State politics, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kebbi State.
From Federal Minister to State Politics
The prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) made his political ambitions public during an exclusive interview with DCL Hausa on Monday, November 17, 2025. Malami expressed unwavering confidence in his political prospects, stating that he has secured widespread support across the northwestern state.
The former minister revealed that he has already agreed to contest the election and emphasized there would be no retreat from his decision. He told his interviewer: "I have agreed to contest, and there is no retreat. God willing, we are going to win because we have people who believe in us."
Addressing Critical State Issues
Malami outlined key areas his administration would prioritize if elected, with insecurity and agricultural revival taking center stage in his proposed governance agenda. He expressed deep concern about how insecurity has driven numerous farmers away from their farmlands, significantly impacting agricultural productivity in the state known as Nigeria's rice hub.
The former justice minister didn't mince words when criticizing the current All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, blaming their policies for contributing to economic hardship, particularly in northern Nigeria. He highlighted how rice mills that had operated successfully for decades have been forced to shut down due to what he described as "bad policies that favour foreign companies."
Political Mobilization and Electoral Guidelines
While expressing enthusiasm for his gubernatorial bid, Malami acknowledged that Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines currently restrict active political mobilization. However, he assured his supporters that when the appropriate time arrives, the extent of his support among Kebbi residents would become evident.
"INEC guidelines do not allow us to begin mobilisation yet, but when the time comes, you will see that we have the support of the people of Kebbi State," Malami stated during the interview.
Security Challenges and Political Violence
The declaration comes against the backdrop of security concerns that have personally affected the former minister. Recall that Malami's convoy was attacked by suspected political thugs in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, on Monday, September 1, 2025, while he was on a condolence visit to several families.
This incident prompted an investigation by the Department of State Services (DSS), which Malami confirmed had invited him for questioning. The former minister suggested the petition that led to the DSS inquiry was politically motivated by opposition figures within his state. Despite this, he commended the DSS for their professional handling of the matter, noting that he was treated with respect throughout the process.
Malami's political journey has been marked by significant transitions, having recently defected from the ruling APC to join the African Democratic Congress, where he has emerged as a prominent leader in Kebbi State. His entry into the gubernatorial race sets the stage for an intriguing political contest in 2027, with the former federal minister now seeking to translate his national experience into state-level leadership.
