The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr Abubakar Malami (SAN), has explained why he decided to abandon his quest to succeed Abubakar Atiku Bagudu as the next Kebbi State Governor, saying that patriotism made him to shelve his political ambition and continue his work as the AGF.
Malami stated this in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday by his spokesman, Dr. Umar Gwandu.
He also claimed that he did not resign as the AGF despite attending the valedictory ceremony hosted by President Muhammadu Buhari for the outgoing ministers with political ambitions at the State House in Abuja on Friday.
But Gwandu has argued that Malami has the right to shelve his governorship ambition, saying that it is a matter of personal conviction and individual rights as he insisted that his principal did not violate any law.
According to Malami’s aide, right-thinking members of the society ought to accord respect to individuals’ right to freedom of choice in matters relating to his boss’ decision.
Gwandu said, “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 or as an AGF 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 of admiration coming from a paragon of virtue.
