Former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has formally announced his intention to run for governor of Kebbi State in the 2027 elections, setting the stage for what observers predict will be a fiercely contested race.

Speaking during an interview with DCL Hausa, Malami said he was confident in the support he enjoys across the state and vowed to prioritise security and revive Kebbi’s struggling agricultural sector.

Malami criticised the ruling APC, his former party for what he described as worsening insecurity and failed economic policies that have crippled farming communities.

According to him, years of banditry have driven farmers off their land, forcing long-standing rice mills to shut down and shrinking food production in a state once known for agricultural strength.

He said his aspiration was rooted in a desire to “salvage Kebbi State,” promising a focused agenda centered on restoring security, rebuilding the agricultural value chain, and improving the welfare of residents.

In July, Malami resigned from the APC and joined the African Democratic Congress after what he described as “wide consultations” and “deep personal reflection.” He insisted the move was motivated not by anger or personal ambition, but by concern over the hardship facing ordinary Nigerians.

“INEC guidelines don’t permit mobilisation yet,” he said, “but when the time comes, you will see that the people of Kebbi are with us. We won’t disappoint those who believe in us.”