Political Blackmail Won’t Work’ – Lawmakers Slam Ex-AGF Malami Over Petition Against Kebbi Gov

The Kebbi State House of Assembly has dismissed a petition filed by former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, accusing Governor Nasir Idris of importing thugs and foreign mercenaries to destabilise the state.

Speaking to journalists in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, the Speaker of the House, Muhammad Usman, described Malami’s claims as baseless, mischievous, and politically motivated. He stressed that Kebbi remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria and warned against attempts to tarnish its reputation.

“Kebbi State has, over the years, built a reputation as one of the most peaceful states in the country. Any attempt to destroy that image by jealous individuals is an attack not only on the government but also on the good people of Kebbi,” Usman said.

The Speaker noted that the petition was nothing more than an attempt to create unnecessary tension and distract the government from its developmental agenda. He maintained that Kebbi’s political culture is rooted in dialogue and democratic values, not violence or intimidation.

“Our politics is based on dialogue and respect for democracy. These allegations are malicious, unfounded, and without a shred of evidence,” he added.

Usman further revealed that security agencies in the state had not reported any intelligence to back Malami’s claims. He urged residents to remain calm and called on the relevant authorities to investigate the petition thoroughly, stressing that Malami should be prosecuted if found guilty of raising false alarms.

Malami, now a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), had on Wednesday written to the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Director-General of the DSS. In his petition, he alleged that political actors in Kebbi were working with mercenaries from the Niger Republic while trafficking arms to intimidate citizens and silence opposition.

He further claimed that on September 1, he and some other indigenes were attacked by armed thugs “operating without fear of law enforcement.” Malami warned that such activities, if unchecked, posed serious risks not only to Kebbi’s peace but also to Nigeria’s national security and sovereignty.