The convoy of former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, was attacked on Monday in Birnin Kebbi by suspected thugs, leaving about 10 vehicles destroyed and several of his supporters injured.
Malami, now a leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kebbi State, said he was in the state capital to pay condolences to bereaved families and not for political campaigning when the attack occurred.
“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,” Malami alleged. “The truth is, when it comes to politics in Kebbi State there is no retreat, no surrender.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC), however, denied responsibility. Kebbi APC Publicity Secretary, Isa Assalafy, condemned the incident, insisting the party had no reason to instigate violence.
“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 to be disrupted,” he said.
Assalafy further alleged that security personnel attached to Malami’s convoy fired shots during the confrontation, which he claimed escalated the situation.