Shinkafi, Ex-Zamfara Governorship Candidate Escapes Assassination in Abuja

Former Zamfara State governorship candidate and prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt in Abuja on Friday, August 15, 2025.

The incident happened shortly after Friday Juma’at prayers when Shinkafi’s convoy was blocked by masked gunmen clad in black. The assailants, armed and moving in an unmarked black Toyota Prado Jeep without number plates, reportedly attempted to attack before fleeing the scene.

Shinkafi, who also heads the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development (PAPSD), is known for his strong opposition to banditry and ransom payments to kidnappers.

He alleged that the assassination attempt was linked to his public stance, which has angered criminal elements and some powerful interests.
“I have never supported paying ransoms to bandits. I know my position has made me a target, but I will not be intimidated or silenced,” Shinkafi declared.

Security sources say the politician has previously received threats from notorious bandit leaders, including Bello Turji, over his outspoken position on ransom negotiations.

Following the attack, Shinkafi urged the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to conduct a thorough investigation, apprehend the culprits, and expose any sponsors behind the plot.

“The audacity of this attack in the Federal Capital is alarming. It sends a dangerous message about the reach of these criminal networks,” he warned.

As of press time, no arrests have been made, and the police are yet to release an official statement.

Despite the close call, Shinkafi vowed to continue advocating for peace, unity, and national security, saying that succumbing to fear would only embolden criminals threatening the country’s stability.