The immediate-past Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, SAN, has raised the alarm over alleged targeted violent attacks on members of the Opposition Coalition’s Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government.
Malami disclosed this aftermath of a solidarity visit to his Abuja residence by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Monday.
LEADERSHIP reports that Malami’s convoy was attacked last week Monday by suspected political thugs in his native Kebbi State while returning from a condolence visit in the State capital.
Recall that Malami resigned from the APC on July 2, 2025, and later joined the ADC.
The former Minister said the attack on his convoy was not an isolated case given the nature of recent similar attacks on ADC chieftains like Malam Nasir El-Rufai and others in Kaduna State and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour and other party stalwarts in Lagos State.
He noted that the incidents, happening in quick succession across different states, highlighted a disturbing pattern of ‘coordinated political violence’ designed to silence dissent and weaken democratic opposition.
Taking to his verified Facebook page, Malami wrote: “Today, I had the honour of receiving Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar at my residence. His visit was a gesture of solidarity and support as I continue to grapple with the aftermath of the violent attack orchestrated by APC-sponsored thugs in Kebbi State.
“I am deeply moved by his personal engagement, and the discussion we shared underscored the urgent need for all Nigerians—irrespective of political affiliation—to uphold peace, security, and the rule of law. It is a reminder that our democracy thrives not through intimidation or violence, but through dialogue, accountability, and mutual respect.
“I remain steadfast in my commitment to justice and the protection of the citizens of our nation. The events in Kebbi State serve as a stark warning against the politicization of violence and the deliberate attempt to undermine democratic institutions for partisan advantage. Such acts must be unequivocally condemned and addressed through the law.
“The attack on my convoy in Kebbi did not happen in isolation. Only a few days earlier, thugs believed to be working for the ruling party violently stormed an ADC coalition meeting in Kaduna led by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. Attendees, including senior party leaders, were assaulted while vehicles were vandalized, even as security agencies looked on. Such brazenness speaks to a dangerous culture of impunity that must not be allowed to fester.
“Similarly, in Lagos, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the former Labour Party governorship candidate now aligned with the opposition, was targeted during a rally in Alimosho. The event, which was to feature respected national leaders, was disrupted by hired hoodlums who injured participants and scattered the gathering. These incidents, happening in quick succession across different states, highlight a disturbing pattern of coordinated political violence designed to silence dissent and weaken democratic opposition.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his timely visit and encouragement. It is heartening to witness leaders prioritizing principles over politics, demonstrating that the bonds of our shared humanity and the sanctity of our democracy transcend partisan lines.
“Let this moment serve as a clarion call: the path to a stronger Nigeria lies in unity, justice, and the unwavering pursuit of truth.”
