A former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kebbi State.

Malami made the announcement on Monday, stating that he enjoys strong backing from the people of the state.

Speaking during an interview with DCL Hausa, he said he is fully committed to the race despite current restrictions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“INEC guidelines do not allow us to begin any form of mobilisation yet, but I assure you that when the time comes, you will see that we have the support of the people of Kebbi State,” he said. “I have agreed to contest, and there is no retreat. God willing, we are going to win because we have people who believe in us, and we will not let them down.”

Malami also took aim at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the party of contributing to the growing hardship across the country, especially in the North.

According to him, widespread insecurity has pushed many farmers away from their farmlands, while “rice mills that operated actively for 20 years have shut down due to bad policies that favour foreign companies.”

He said his decision to run was motivated by a desire to “salvage Kebbi State from insecurity, restore and revive farming, and protect the interests of the people,” dismissing suggestions that his ambition was driven by personal gain.