The political camp of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, is in turmoil as his ongoing legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) threatens to derail his 2027 governorship ambition in Kebbi State. Malami, who switched allegiance from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in July 2025, declared his intention to contest the governorship, pledging to “restore hope” to the state.
Initially greeted with both applause and skepticism, Malami’s political drive has since been overshadowed by serious legal troubles. Critics, including Kebbi Governor Nasir Idris’ Chief Press Secretary, Yahya Sarki, have questioned Malami’s eligibility to contest due to ongoing 16-count charges involving alleged money laundering and abuse of office.
The EFCC is prosecuting Malami alongside his son, Abdulaziz Malami, and an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, Hajia Asabe Bashir, over the alleged concealment of billions of naira between 2015 and 2025. Malami has consistently denied all allegations, including claims involving N12 billion allegedly laundered.
A recent Federal High Court order in Abuja granted the interim forfeiture of 57 properties suspected to be linked to unlawful activities, further shaking Malami’s political camp. Reports from his residence in Birnin Kebbi show unusual calm, and the ADC secretariat in the state capital has witnessed minimal activity since the legal developments, leaving supporters anxious and uncertain.
Malami’s political journey has been fraught with challenges. In September 2025, his convoy narrowly escaped an attack in Birnin Kebbi, which destroyed multiple vehicles and injured several supporters. Many analysts linked the incident to political opponents seeking to undermine his ambitions.
With the former AGF’s legal troubles unfolding, political observers suggest the situation may clear the path for incumbent Governor Nasir Idris, who had faced little opposition after key PDP figures defected to the APC in May 2025. Malami’s initial entry into the race had shifted the political landscape, but the ongoing court case now threatens to stall momentum and weaken his campaign.
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Despite the setbacks, Malami’s camp insists he is being unfairly targeted. Special Assistant on Media Mohammed Bello Doka described the proceedings as a “media trial” and alleged political persecution, claiming the EFCC has weaponized judicial processes to tarnish Malami’s image.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar echoed these concerns, accusing the EFCC of selective prosecution and politicizing corruption investigations, particularly against strong opposition figures like Malami and former Sokoto Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.
The Kebbi State chapter of the ADC also condemned the legal proceedings as politically motivated, arguing that Malami’s actions in furtherance of his governorship ambition did not violate bail conditions. Observers note that the outcome of Malami’s trial could decisively shape the 2027 governorship race, with his political relevance hinging on his ability to secure bail, sustain grassroots mobilization, and navigate a high-profile trial that has captured national attention.
As 2027 approaches, the central question remains whether Malami can maintain momentum and credibility while under intense legal scrutiny, making his journey one of the most closely watched political narratives in Nigeria.
