Kebbi governor and Malami clash over 2027 election ambitions
The political scene in Kebbi State is heating up as Abubakar Malami and Governor Nasir Idris exchange accusations ahead of the 2027 governorship race. Tensions flared after Malami declared his intention to run for governor under the African Democratic Congress, leaving the All Progressives Congress. Both sides have accused each other of misgovernance, insecurity, and economic failures. The rivalry has sparked intense public debate about the future leadership of Kebbi State.
Key takeaways
- Abubakar Malami left the All Progressives Congress to contest the 2027 governorship under the African Democratic Congress, criticizing the current administration for insecurity and corruption.
- The Kebbi State Government, through Yahaya Sarki, accused Malami of misgovernance, political opportunism, and contributing to the state’s challenges during his time as Attorney-General.
- In a statement dated May 10, 2026, Malami claimed the government’s reaction to his candidacy showed panic and highlighted issues like out-of-school children, poverty, and healthcare failures.
- Malami alleged that over 608 severely malnourished children died between January and September 2025, and that more than N1tn in revenue had not translated into visible improvements.
- The government defended its record, citing achievements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, while blaming past administrations, including Malami’s tenure, for current problems.
