Spokesman: Why Malami withdrew from Kebbi governorship race

Umar Gwandu, spokesperson of Abubakar Malami, says the withdrawal of the attorney-general of the federation (AGF) from the Kebbi state governorship race is an act of patriotism.

The minister had on April 28 declared his intention to contest the governorship election on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform, and thereafter submitted his N50 million nomination form on May 11.

However, following speculations on the matter, Malami on Saturday confirmed his decision to withdraw from the poll.

In a subsequent statement, Gwandu said his principal’s decision is a demonstration of “contentment, self-control, placidity and decisiveness”.

“Attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, Abubakar Malami has not resigned,” he said.

“He withdrew right ambition to contest for the 2023 Kebbi state gubernatorial elections.

“Malami has the right to choose to voluntarily shelve his gubernatorial ambition. It is a matter of personal conviction and individual right which didn’t violate any law.

“Right thinking members of the society accord respect to individual’s right to freedom of choice in matters relating to his.

“As individual Nigerian citizens with inalienable fundamental rights, we are not aware of any legally justifiable and reasonable tenable obligations compelling the person of Abubakar Malami, SAN or as an attorney-general of the federation to do otherwise.

“The decision is not only a demonstration of altruism and patriotism but of contentment, self-control, placidity and decisiveness in problem-solving at a time shrouded with confusing and competing stimulus. It is a commendable posture worthy admiration coming from a paragon of virtue.”