Kebbi govt accuses ADC, Malami of exploiting insecurity for political gains

The Kebbi State Government has accused the African Democratic Congress, ADC, and its governorship candidate, Abubakar Malami, of using insecurity and the plight of banditry victims to gain political advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The government alleged that opposition politicians were using visits to Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, camps and communities affected by banditry to score political points rather than show genuine concern for the victims.

The allegations were contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy to Governor Nasir Idris.

The statement accused the ADC leadership of building its campaign around allegations against the government, incitement of civil servants and criticism of its handling of insecurity.

It further accused the ADC of using promises of improved workers’ welfare and the construction of a new state secretariat to incite civil servants against the administration.

The statement also criticised visits by ADC leaders and candidates to communities and IDP camps affected by banditry, describing them as politically motivated.

The government specifically accused Malami of displaying what it described as “crocodile tears” during a visit to Jega.

It also criticised the party’s House of Representatives candidate for Koko/Besse/Maiyama Federal Constituency, Shehu Muhammed Koko, over his conduct during a condolence visit.

The statement said Governor Idris had visited Sakaba, Danko/Wasagu and Shanga local government areas, where he announced the deployment of additional armoured vehicles and military personnel to strengthen security operations.

However, a political aide to Malami dismissed the allegations, describing them as evidence that the ruling party was afraid of the opposition.

“All they are doing is because they are afraid of the kind of opposition we are giving them,” he said.