A former chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Rabiu Suleiman Gulma, has called on former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state.
Addressing journalists in Yauri, Gulma stated that Malami’s governance experience and national exposure make him a credible contender for the governorship position.
He added that he and other supporters are ready to begin consultations and mobilize across all 21 local government areas of the state if Malami declares his interest.
“Though he has not declared interest, we believe Malami is the kind of leader Kebbi needs. His track record speaks for itself,” he said.
Gulma further noted that several APC stakeholders in Kebbi believe Malami can unite the party and provide a new direction for the state’s development.
However, Malami has recently come under criticism from a member of the House of Representatives, Donald Ojogo, over his remarks against President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement for the 2027 presidential election. Ojogo, who represents Eseodo/Ilaje Federal Constituency and is a member of the APC from Ondo State, said Malami lacks the moral authority to speak on national security matters.
The former AGF had expressed displeasure at the recent endorsement of President Tinubu by the APC during a North-wide political consultative meeting in Abuja. He criticized the party for focusing on politics rather than pressing national challenges.
“Just a few days ago, the ruling party held its national summit and instead of addressing the serious issues of insecurity, economic hardship, and rising poverty, it chose to focus on politics, endorsing President Bola Tinubu as sole candidate for the 2027 election that is still two years away,” Malami said.
He also called on President Tinubu to prioritize economic and security concerns affecting Nigerians.
Ojogo, who served as Commissioner for Information under the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, accused Malami of opposing state policing efforts such as the Amotekun Corps, which was launched in the South West to address regional security threats.
“I served as Commissioner for Information under the late Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu’s administration when the Amotekun Corps was established to combat insecurity.
“As a direct witness, I saw Malami consistently frustrate Southern Governors’ attempts to address security concerns affecting our people,” he said.
Ojogo further argued that Malami’s opposition to the concept of state policing during his tenure as the country’s top legal officer undermines his current stance on security.
“Mr Malami opposed every measure proposed by the Southern Governors Forum under Akeredolu’s leadership when insecurity was at its peak in the region.
“Mr Malami’s disdain for the concept of state policing was clear and undermined efforts to tackle insecurity while he served as Nigeria’s chief law officer,” he added.
