The entry of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), into the 2027 Kebbi State governorship race, under the African Democratic Congress, has reshaped the political landscape in the North-West state, writes ANIMASAHUN SALMAN
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has formally joined the 2027 governorship contest in Kebbi State, a move that immediately altered political calculations in the North-West state and triggered reactions from government officials, political analysts, and supporters.
Malami, who declared his ambition during an interview on DCL Hausa monitored in Birnin Kebbi, said he would be contesting on the platform of the African Democratic Congress, setting the stage for what many observers now describe as a potentially fierce and unpredictable race.
However, just a week later, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission reportedly invited him as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged $490m Abacha loot. The move introduced a major stumbling block to his political ambitions, fuelling speculation about whether the legal scrutiny could slow down his campaign or affect voter perception.
Not deterred, Malami wrote on his X handle: “This is to confirm that I have been invited by the EFCC. As a law-abiding and patriotic citizen, I hereby reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation. I understand the spirit of accountability and transparency in public service – the principles that I both advocate and champion. Rooted in public service and in the spirit of transparency and accountability, I am committed to sharing with the Nigerian public the developments as they unfold.”
After honouring the EFCC invitation, the former minister wrote: “In line with my undertaking to keep Nigerians updated on my invitation by EFCC, I give glory to Allah for his divine intervention. The engagement was successful, and I was eventually released while on an appointment for further engagement as the truth relating to the fabricated allegations against me continues to unfold.”
Announcing his decision to contest the governorship, the former minister said his decision was driven by worsening insecurity, the collapse of agriculture, and what he called “policy failure” affecting thousands of households across Kebbi.
According to him, the state is in desperate need of “rebuilding,” and he believes he possesses the experience and network required to redirect its development.
“I have agreed to contest, and there is no retreat. God willing, we are going to win. When the time comes, you will see that the people of Kebbi are with us,” Malami declared.
His statement signals the beginning of a long political journey that could reshape the balance of power in a state long dominated by the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Malami’s choice of the ADC immediately attracted attention across the state. As one of the most influential figures in the APC during the late President Muhammadu Buhari administration, his defection to a new party signalled a deep political rift.
Political analysts say this could fragment the ruling party’s support base, especially in Gwandu Emirate, where Malami’s influence has long been visible.
According to some political commentators, the former minister’s declaration could introduce a three-way contest between the APC, with incumbent Governor Nasir Idris seeking to maintain party dominance; the PDP, which has struggled to regain momentum in the state; and Malami’s ADC, which may draw support from disaffected voters, youth groups, and political blocs dissatisfied with the current administration.
The development also revives long-standing political rivalries dating back to the 2015 and 2019 election cycles, where Malami was instrumental in mobilising federal support for APC candidates.
