The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) has strongly criticised a petition reportedly filed by former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, against Kebbi State lawmakers, describing it as “a dangerous manoeuvre that threatens the peace and stability of the state.”
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Dr. Tunji Bamidele, and made available to journalists on Thursday, DWI said the petition, submitted on September 10, 2023, was aimed at deflecting attention from issues surrounding the former minister.
According to the group, Malami’s allegations that Governor Nasir Idris and other stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were conspiring to import thugs and illegal arms into Kebbi were “false and unfounded.”
“Such reckless claims serve no purpose other than to incite fear and unrest among the citizens of Kebbi, a state historically renowned for its tranquility,” the statement said.
DWI further alleged that Malami’s recent visit to Birnin Kebbi coincided with violence at the APC state secretariat, urging security agencies to investigate the incident.
The organisation maintained that comments about the importation of mercenaries were “baseless and dangerously inflammatory,” warning that they could jeopardise Kebbi’s fragile peace and economic growth.
The group also called on the National Assembly and relevant security agencies to “take these allegations seriously” and ensure that peace and democratic integrity were protected in the state.
“The citizens of Kebbi deserve leaders who prioritise peace, stability and the rule of law over personal ambition,” DWI added.
DWI pledged to continue working with Kebbi lawmakers and civil society to promote a political environment free of violence and intimidation.