By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Kebbi State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Abubakar Malami, has called for an investigation into alleged attacks and intimidation of members of his campaign team during the party’s presidential campaign flag-off in Birnin Kebbi.
Malami made the call in a statement issued on Friday by his Special Assistant on Media, Mohammed Bello Doka, in which he accused political thugs of attacking the campaign convoy, destroying media equipment and using tear gas around areas occupied by members of the visiting delegation.
He urged authorities to investigate the incidents, including any alleged involvement of government institutions or security agencies.
The ADC candidate also demanded an impartial inquiry into the demolition of the Malami Pressure Group headquarters along Sani Abacha Bypass in Birnin Kebbi.
He argued that the state government’s denial of involvement and its explanation that the demolition arose from a private ownership dispute should not prevent a transparent investigation.
Malami maintained that political differences should not result in intimidation, property destruction or attempts to frustrate opposition activities.
He called on the Kebbi State Government, security agencies and political stakeholders to uphold citizens’ rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, stressing the need for an environment where people can participate in political activities without fear.
The governorship candidate also drew attention to the security and economic challenges facing Kebbi, including banditry, displacement, poverty, food insecurity and disruptions to farming activities.
He urged the government to prioritise the protection of farmers, investment in education and healthcare, efforts to ease economic hardship and the creation of opportunities for young people.
Malami further appealed to ADC supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding, insisting that political participation must be conducted within the confines of the law.
