The ADC in Kebbi State has been criticized for its style of opposition, which has been described as self-serving and focused on scoring cheap political points rather than holding the incumbent accountable based on facts. The party's recent claims about a cement plant project have been disputed, with records showing that the project is still in its early stages. On March 7, 2025, the Kebbi State Government and MSM signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of a modern cement plant.
The MoU, according to MSM's project page, outlines a first phase of three million tonnes per annum and a $600 million investment. The project is currently at the stage of "MoU signed; feasibility ahead." The company's plan is to develop a four-cluster programme targeting 12 million tonnes per annum, with 45,000 direct and indirect jobs projected. Industry reports have consistently described the arrangement as an MoU, with production expected to start around early 2027.
The ADC has asked, "Where is the cement plant you signed for?" implying that the project has stalled. However, the party's approach has been criticized for distorting the record and failing to acknowledge that the project is a private investment commitment. The state government's role is to facilitate an enabling environment, rather than being the primary investor. The ADC's questions about the project's progress are legitimate, but they should be based on facts and verifiable information.
The ADC's gubernatorial candidate, Bello Malami, has his own controversies, including a recent court ruling that ordered the final forfeiture of 48 properties linked to him and his family members. The court held that the respondents failed to rebut the reasonable suspicion that the properties were acquired through unlawful activities, including abuse of office for personal enrichment. This has raised questions about Malami's integrity and accountability.
An International Chamber of Commerce arbitration award has also found that Malami was involved in a corrupt deal with Sunrise Power's promoter, Leno Adesanya. The tribunal concluded that Malami had acted against Nigeria's interest and was motivated by other incentives. These findings have made it difficult for the ADC to manage the conversation around Malami's record.
The ADC's accountability campaign has been criticized for being one-sided and selective. While the party can ask questions about Kebbi State's finances and projects, it must also be willing to address concerns about its own candidate's record. The party's approach to opposition politics has been described as an "avoidable calamity" that may ultimately harm its chances in the 2027 election.
As the 2027 election approaches, the ADC's strategy will be closely watched. The party's ability to effectively hold the incumbent accountable and present a credible alternative will depend on its willingness to engage in fact-based opposition politics. The Kebbi State Government's response to the ADC's claims and the progress of the cement plant project will also be crucial in shaping the narrative around the state's development.
Key points
- The ADC's opposition strategy in Kebbi State has been criticized for being self-serving and focused on scoring cheap political points.
- The party's gubernatorial candidate, Bello Malami, has been linked to several controversies, including a court ruling that ordered the forfeiture of 48 properties.
- The ADC's accountability campaign has been described as one-sided and selective, failing to address concerns about its own candidate's record.
