A former Nigerian Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has raised concerns over an alleged plot to destabilize Kebbi State through the importation of political thugs and foreign mercenaries. In a petition dated September 10, 2025, Malami alerted top security officials, including the National Security Adviser, Inspector General of Police, and Director-General of the Department of State Services, among others, to the potential threat.
According to Malami’s Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mohammad Bello Doka, the ex-AGF alleged that certain political actors are collaborating with foreign mercenaries from the Niger Republic, arming them through illegal channels. These operatives are reportedly being deployed to intimidate citizens, suppress opposition voices, and disrupt the peace in Kebbi State. Malami, who is the leader of the African Democratic Congress in Kebbi State, emphasized that the threats are based on credible intelligence and personal experience.
Malami cited a specific incident on September 1, 2025, in which he and other indigenes were allegedly attacked by armed thugs. The petition accused Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, and his associates of facilitating these activities, alleging covert ties to the terrorist network known as Lakurawa. Malami described the situation as a national security emergency that transcends local politics and poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty and internal security.
The former AGF urged the security chiefs to act urgently by coordinating inter-agency efforts, securing border communities to prevent the infiltration of mercenaries and arms, and launching a high-level investigation into the alleged collusion between state officials and terrorist elements. The petition was copied to the heads of the relevant security agencies, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the concerns raised.
Kebbi State, located in North-West Nigeria, is a significant region in the country. The alleged plot to destabilize the state has raised concerns about the country’s internal security and sovereignty. Malami’s petition highlights the need for swift action from security agencies to address the situation and prevent potential violence. The outcome of the petition and the actions taken by the security agencies will be crucial in maintaining peace and stability in Kebbi State and the wider region.
