Police have launched probe after violence erupted at alleged El-Rufai-ADC ppolitical gathering in Kaduna.
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that the Kaduna State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation following reports of violence and shooting at a political gathering reportedly linked to former governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. The Command stated it received no prior notification of the event from El-Rufai or his party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
According to DSP Mansir Hassan, the Police Public Relations Officer, the gathering, said to have been convened under the ADC Coalition, went ahead despite repeated warnings, creating an environment exploited by thugs and political gangsters.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the gathering led to a clash, during which thugs attached to the former Governor allegedly fired gunshots, causing chaos and disruption of public order and peace in the state,” Hassan said.
He stressed that the investigation is ongoing and that anyone found culpable, regardless of status, would face the full weight of the law.
The police also approached the ADC leadership for clarification. Party officials reportedly denied knowledge of the meeting and distanced themselves from the gathering allegedly linked to El-Rufai, reaffirming their commitment to the rule of law.
Hassan warned that hotels, event centers, or similar facilities permitting political gatherings without notifying security agencies will also be held liable. In line with this directive, the Command has suspended all unauthorized political gatherings across the state until proper security arrangements are ensured, emphasizing that the measure is in the interest of public peace and safety.
Meanwhile, a human rights activist and lawyer condemned what he described as a “pro-government sponsored hoodlum attack” on El-Rufai’s ADC Coalition meeting, which reportedly resulted in injuries to several members and damage to vehicles.
“Democracy is about the freedom of choice and association. Citizens should be able to hold divergent political views, assemble, and oppose those in power without fear of attack. The assault on El-Rufai’s supporters in the presence of police is political intolerance and completely unacceptable,” he said.