BIRNI KEBBI: The Department of State Services (DSS) has officially interrogated former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, following the shocking attack on his convoy in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
The ugly incident happened on September 1, when Malami was returning from a condolence visit to the family of the late Chief Imam of Dr Bello Haliru Jumu’ah Mosque.
According to eyewitnesses, suspected political thugs suddenly descended on the convoy, vandalising no fewer than 10 vehicles and leaving several of his loyal supporters with varying degrees of injuries. Some of the cars were left with broken windscreens, dented doors, and smashed headlights.
Malami, who confirmed that he appeared before the DSS in Birnin Kebbi, revealed that the questioning was conducted in what he described as a “professional, transparent, and respectful” manner.
The former minister had earlier branded the attack as “politically motivated,” alleging that the violence was fuelled by rivalry and local power struggles in Kebbi. While the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) quickly distanced itself from the incident, Malami formally petitioned both the police and the DSS to carry out a full investigation.
Sharing details on his Facebook page, Malami wrote, I remain committed to cooperating fully with the Department to ensure that their investigation is concluded successfully.
He further stressed that despite the violent incident, he was treated with dignity and respect” throughout his interrogation by DSS operatives.
For many observers, the fact that a high-profile figure like Malami who served as Nigeria’s chief law officer under former President Muhammadu Buhari could be targeted in such a brazen attack highlights the deepening political tensions in parts of Kebbi State.
Supporters of the ex-minister insist that the violence was a deliberate attempt to intimidate him and weaken his political influence.
Others argue it is a reflection of the volatile political climate in the state, where thuggery and violence often rear their heads during contestations for power.
The convoy attack has continued to dominate local discussions, with some residents of Birnin Kebbi calling for tighter security measures to curb the activities of political thugs.
Civil rights groups are also urging security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice and send a clear signal that violence will not be tolerated in the democratic process.
Meanwhile, Malami’s calm and cooperative tone after the DSS session has drawn both sympathy and criticism online.
While his supporters see it as a sign of maturity, his critics have accused him of trying to play politics with the incident.
Regardless of the debates, the DSS interrogation marks a new phase in the investigation and Nigerians will be watching closely to see if those behind the attack are ever identified and prosecuted.
