A convoy carrying former Nigerian Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, was attacked on Monday. Malami, who currently leads the African Democratic Congress in the state, was visiting Birnin Kebbi to offer condolences to prominent individuals who had passed away during his absence.

According to eyewitnesses, the attack resulted in the destruction of approximately 10 vehicles and injuries to several supporters of the former minister. Malami alleged that the attackers were thugs affiliated with the All Progressives Congress, who emerged from the party’s state headquarters armed with dangerous weapons and stones.

Malami described the incident as “a painful act clearly linked to politics,” stating that he was not in the area for political campaigning. He emphasized his commitment to politics in Kebbi State, saying “there is no retreat, no surrender.” The former minister’s statement suggests that the attack may be related to his political activities in the region.

In response to the allegations, the Kebbi State Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Isa Assalafy, denied any involvement by the party in the attack. Assalafy condemned the incident, stating that Kebbi is a peaceful state and that the government would not want to disrupt the peace, especially given its confidence in winning the 2027 elections. However, Assalafy also accused security personnel attached to Malami’s convoy of opening fire during the confrontation, which he claimed escalated the situation.

The attack on Malami’s convoy highlights the tensions and conflicts that can arise in the context of Nigerian politics. As the country prepares for the 2027 elections, incidents like this may indicate a increasingly competitive and potentially volatile political landscape. The denial by the All Progressives Congress and the accusations made by Malami underscore the need for calm and restraint in the face of political differences.