The Kaduna State Police Command has launched an investigation into a violent clash at a political gathering linked to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former governor of the state.
The event, said to have been convened under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), reportedly degenerated into sporadic gunshots and attacks by suspected thugs.
In a statement on Sunday, Mansir Hassan, spokesperson of the command, said the meeting was held without notifying security agencies despite repeated warnings.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the gathering led to a clash, during which thugs and political gangsters attached to the former governor allegedly fired gunshots, causing chaos and disruption of public order and peace in the state,” Hassan said.
He warned that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law, “no matter how highly placed”.
The police command said it had contacted ADC officials, who denied knowledge of the meeting and distanced the party from the gathering.
“The ADC leadership reaffirmed their commitment to the rule of law and distanced themselves from the claims of the former governor,” Hassan added.
The command also announced the suspension of all unauthorised political gatherings across the state until proper security arrangements are ensured.
It further warned hotels and event centres that they would be held liable if they host political meetings without notifying security agencies.
The violence reportedly broke out during the inauguration of a transition committee set up by opposition parties in Kaduna.
Hoodlums armed with cutlasses, clubs, and stones stormed the venue, leaving several attendees injured and vehicles destroyed.