Tensions are running high in Kebbi State following a severe crackdown by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami. The APC has accused them of orchestrating violent attacks using hired political thugs, in what it claims is a coordinated attempt to destabilize the local political landscape.
According to the APC’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, hoodlums allegedly loyal to the ADC emerged during Malami’s recent visit to Birnin Kebbi—visits which were said to be condolence-focused—and attacked the APC’s state secretariat. Reports say the attackers vandalized billboards bearing the images of President Tinubu and Governor Idris, destroyed campaign posters, and discharged firearms that terrorized residents. The party appealed to security agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible in order to preserve the state’s tradition of peaceful politics.
Malami, for his part, denied any political intent behind his visit, asserting that he was there for solace, not campaigning. He described the assault as clearly politically motivated and lamented the erosion of civil discourse in Kebbi.
The ADC’s inner dynamics are now under pressure as it deals with internal suspension of key executives perceived to be Malami allies. The party’s reaction to the APC’s allegations has been one of outrage, describing the accusations as desperate attempts at political sabotage.
Meanwhile, witnesses and residents have added fuel to the fire, claiming that the attackers were armed and brought in from neighboring areas—raising serious concerns about the infiltration of Kebbi’s usually calm political environment.
With state politics increasingly heated, observers warn that unless de-escalation efforts are made swiftly, the volatility could have far-reaching consequences for inter-party relations ahead of the 2027 general election.
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