Atiku condemns political violence after visiting Malami over convoy attack, urging swift action to protect Nigeria’s democracy
Atiku condemns political violence following a reported attack on the convoy of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, in Birnin Kebbi.
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The former Vice President paid a solidarity visit on Monday, decrying what he described as a disturbing rise in politically motivated aggression.
Atiku’s visit came amid growing concerns over attacks targeting members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a party increasingly positioning itself as Nigeria’s “third force.”
Speaking after the meeting, Atiku strongly warned that unchecked political violence poses a dangerous threat to the country’s fragile democratic process.
He urged security agencies and stakeholders to act swiftly, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford to tolerate any form of political intimidation or lawlessness.
“Nigeria’s democracy is under pressure,” Atiku said in a statement released by Muhammad Al-Amin, Zonal Coordinator of the Malami Support Organisation.
“The ADC coalition remains committed to rescuing Nigeria’s democracy from imminent threats. We must not allow anti-democratic forces to thrive.”
Malami, in his response, thanked Atiku for his visit and support.
He condemned the attack as a direct attempt to intimidate political actors and warned against the weaponisation of violence for partisan advantage.
“This incident is a stark warning against the politicisation of violence and the deliberate attempt to undermine democratic institutions,” Malami stated.
Though no official statement has yet been issued by security agencies, political observers warn that incidents like this may escalate in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Electoral violence is not new to Nigeria, with past elections marred by clashes, attacks on campaign convoys, and destruction of party properties.
However, analysts now see a troubling shift, as political competition intensifies among not only the major parties—APC and PDP—but also emerging alternatives like the ADC.
Atiku, a vocal critic of political thuggery, has consistently called for reforms to protect democratic values and public safety.
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His visit to Malami sends a strong signal that political violence will not be ignored—and must be addressed with urgency.
