Kebbi state government disputes UNDP poverty ranking, accuses ADC candidate of politicisation

Background A United Nations Development Programme assessment that placed Kebbi among the country’s poorest states has become a focal point of political debate in the region. The report, which covers data from 2018, was highlighted by opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Government response The Kebbi State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Yakubu Ahmed‑BK, stated that the data used in the report is outdated and was brought to public attention by former Attorney‑General Abubakar Malami. He said the report was produced during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari and therefore does not reflect the current situation under Governor Nasir Idris.

Accusations against Malami Ahmed‑BK accused Malami of selectively presenting the UNDP findings to discredit the incumbent government. He argued that the candidate had failed to provide evidence of how the data was collected or to explain the methodology used, and that the report should not be employed as a political weapon.

Government’s view on poverty and progress The commissioner emphasised that poverty exists in Kebbi but that the focus should be on the causes, the opportunities to address them, and the measures already underway. He claimed that the Idris administration has taken steps to reduce economic hardship over its three‑year tenure, although specific comparative figures were not supplied.

Security and development measures In addition to the poverty discussion, the government highlighted its support for security operations. It has supplied patrol vehicles and logistics to local forces and established military bases in areas vulnerable to armed attacks. The commissioner also noted that the state has worked to improve access to essential services, including water, in the wake of reported shortages.

Political context and upcoming elections The exchange between the state government and the ADC candidate comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 elections. Governor Idris and Malami are prominent figures in the contest for Kebbi’s political leadership, and the use of development statistics has become a key point of contention. The government has urged opposition politicians to focus on concrete proposals for the state’s development rather than on politically motivated critiques.