A wave of violent incidents linked to political campaigns has swept across several Nigerian states, including Kogi, Benuwai, Kano, Inugu, Kaduna, Delta, and Ribas. Since the start of campaigning on August 19, numerous attacks have been reported, leaving several political leaders and supporters injured. This upsurge in violence has raised concerns about the safety of politicians and citizens, particularly as the election season heats up.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused opposition parties of being behind the attacks on its members and supporters. However, most reports suggest that the violence is primarily targeted at members and supporters of opposition parties, including the NDC, ADC, and PDP. In Kogi State, for example, suspected APC thugs disrupted an ADC meeting in Ejule, forcing attendees to flee for their lives.
On September 15, the incident in Kogi State resulted in at least one ADC member being injured and taken to a hospital for medical attention. The attack has sparked fresh concerns about security in the Ofu local government area, which has a history of violent clashes during elections. In 2019, the PDP's female leader in Kogi State, Salome Abuh, was reportedly set ablaze at her home in the same area during a gubernatorial election.
In Benuwai State, a motorcade carrying NDC presidential campaigner Peter Obi was attacked on September 8. Suspected thugs blocked the road in Makurdi, preventing Obi from entering the state on a visit to Yelwata. At least 10 NDC supporters were injured and taken to the University of Benuwai Teaching Hospital.
The opposition party accused government agents of supporting the thugs, but the Benuwai State government has denied these allegations. Within 24 hours of the incident, the Benuwai State police command announced that 46 suspects had been arrested in connection with the attack.
Kano State also experienced a violent incident on September 5, when thugs attacked police and journalists at an APC meeting. The attack occurred near the Arewa House, and the thugs damaged a journalist's vehicle and shattered its rear glass. The APC had hosted a gathering in support of Tinubu at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, which was attended by leaders from opposition parties.
The recent violence has sparked concerns about the potential for election chaos in Nigerian states. With the election season approaching, stakeholders are calling for increased security measures to ensure the safety of politicians, supporters, and citizens. The incidents have also highlighted the need for politicians to promote peaceful campaigns and avoid inflammatory rhetoric.
Key points
- Several Nigerian states have experienced violent incidents linked to political campaigns.
- The ruling APC has accused opposition parties of being behind the attacks on its members and supporters.
- The incidents have sparked concerns about the potential for election chaos and the need for increased security measures.
