Kebbi Assembly dismisses Malami’s claims, seeks security probe

The Kebbi State House of Assembly has dismissed as “baseless and politically motivated” allegations by former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), that Governor Nasir Idris imported political thugs and mercenaries into the state.

Addressing reporters in Birnin Kebbi at the weekend, Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Usman, said the claims were calculated to incite fear and smear the image of the government and people of Kebbi.

“Kebbi State is known across Nigeria as one of the most peaceful states. Any attempt to tarnish that record is not just an attack on the governor, but on our people,” Usman said.

Malami, who currently leads the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the state, had in a petition dated September 10 and addressed to top security agencies, alleged that some political actors were collaborating with foreign mercenaries from Niger Republic and arming them through illegal means.

He claimed that the operatives were being deployed to intimidate citizens, silence the opposition, and undermine peace in the state.

But the Speaker faulted the petition, insisting there was no evidence to back the allegations.

“These claims are mischievous and entirely without substance. Kebbi politics has always been rooted in dialogue, tolerance, and respect for democratic values,” he stressed.

He described the allegations as a ploy to distract the Idris administration from its developmental programmes.

Usman urged residents to remain calm and not be swayed by “political propaganda,” while calling on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation.

“If found to be politically motivated, those behind the petition must face the full weight of the law to serve as a deterrent,” the Speaker added.