Malami Criticizes Kebbi Government Over Alleged Attacks During ADC Rally

Abubakar Malami, the Kebbi State candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has spoken out against alleged violence and intimidation during the party’s campaign kickoff in Birnin Kebbi. He made these statements in a press release on Friday, following the event that featured former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and other ADC leaders.

Malami accused political thugs of attacking the campaign convoy, damaging media equipment, and using tear gas against attendees. He called for a fair investigation into these incidents, especially the demolition of the Malami Pressure Group headquarters, which he said raises serious concerns about democratic freedoms.

He criticized the Kebbi State Government’s denial of involvement in the demolition, which officials attributed to a private ownership dispute. Malami insisted that transparency and accountability are necessary regardless of the state’s claims.

Malami emphasized that political disagreements should not lead to violence or property destruction. He reminded everyone that the Constitution protects citizens’ rights to express themselves, associate freely, and gather peacefully. He urged the government to respect these rights.

In addition to his concerns about political violence, Malami highlighted the broader issues facing Kebbi residents, including banditry, poverty, and food insecurity. He pointed to a recent humanitarian effort by the National Emergency Management Agency to help victims of violence as evidence of the challenges in the state.

Malami called on the Kebbi State Government and security agencies to focus on addressing these urgent issues instead of intimidating political opponents. He encouraged ADC supporters to remain peaceful and committed to pursuing change through democratic means.

In response, Ahmed Idris, the Chief Press Secretary for the governor, denied any wrongdoing by the state government, claiming that the ADC held their event without interference and that it was their supporters who damaged government property.