Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, has responded strongly to former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, while defending his continued membership in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and addressing corruption allegations against him.
Speaking during an interview with DCL Hausa, Lamido revisited his long-running dispute with Malami, recalling how he was taken to court during Malami’s time as Minister of Justice.
“When Abubakar Malami was Minister of Justice, he took me to court and accused me of being a thief. But today, it is clear that what he owns, I do not own. Do I have a hotel in Birnin Kudu or houses in Abuja?” Lamido said.
The PDP chieftain also rejected criticisms over his refusal to leave the party, questioning what he described as double standards in Nigerian politics.
“Why is there concern because I have not left the PDP? Many PDP members maintain relationships with politicians in other parties, especially the APC, and nobody questions them,” he said.
Referencing political interactions across party lines, Lamido cited former Kano State governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, and meetings involving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“If Shekarau visits Tinubu, it is not considered news. Party leaders and governors are doing the same. Yet, when it comes to me, it becomes an issue,” he added.
While reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP, Lamido hinted at possible alliances with like-minded parties.
“I am still in the PDP, but if I see another party whose ideology aligns with mine, we can form an alliance and work together,” he stated.
On the corruption case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lamido expressed frustration over the prolonged legal battle.
“It has been 10 years, and I am still in court. This started during the administration of former President, Goodluck Jonathan,” he said.
He further alleged that the charges were politically motivated and aimed at derailing his presidential ambition.
“Jonathan started this allegation because he heard I wanted to contest. It was to stop me,” he alleged.
Addressing internal tensions within the PDP, particularly involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Lamido insisted his stance is driven by principle.
“There is self-interest, and there is truth. I stand for the truth. The question is: where does the PDP stand legally and in the eyes of the electoral body? That is where I stand, as a PDP member,” he said.