A peaceful rally organised by the African Democratic Congress, ADC, in Sokoto State was disrupted on Tuesday, with the party's governorship candidate, Manir Muhammad Dan'iya, accusing suspected All Progressives Congress, APC, supporters of attacking the event. The rally, which began around 10 am near the Old Savannah Bank area, was heading towards the ADC state secretariat in Sokoto when the alleged attack occurred. According to Dan'iya's media aide, Aminu Abdullahi, several women were injured, and some had their veils torn during the incident.
Dan'iya alleged that vehicles belonging to the ADC were damaged, and valuables were stolen during the attack. He accused APC chieftain S.A. Bajare and the party's youth leader, Abdulrashid Baraka, of allegedly leading or coordinating the attack. The ADC candidate condemned the incident, describing it as an attack on democracy and the right of women to participate in peaceful political activities. He called on the police to investigate the allegations and bring anyone found responsible to justice.
Dan'iya urged the Sokoto State Commissioner of Police to launch an immediate investigation, identify the suspects, and arrest those found to have taken part in the alleged attack. He also called on the state government to take steps to prevent further political violence and ensure that all parties can conduct lawful activities without intimidation. The ADC candidate questioned why women attending a peaceful rally were allegedly targeted, particularly when similar gatherings organised by male supporters had reportedly not faced such incidents.
According to Dan'iya, the Nigerian Constitution guarantees citizens the right to freedom of movement, peaceful assembly, and association, adding that no political group should prevent others from exercising these rights. He emphasised that there is absolutely no justification for attacking women who are exercising their democratic rights peacefully. Dan'iya's allegations have sparked a heated debate about the state of politics in Sokoto State.
However, Malami Muhammad Galadanchi Bajare, Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto on Rural Roads, denied the allegations, describing them as fabricated claims by the ADC to shift blame. Bajare said the APC Sokoto Central Senatorial District Zonal Office had operated for more than 12 years without its members causing any breach of peace. He countered the ADC's account, alleging that members of the opposition party were responsible for attacking APC youths.
Bajare further claimed that the ADC members seized two motorcycles, although one was later returned. He added that officers of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, were present and witnessed the incident involving supporters of both parties. The denial by Bajare has raised questions about the true circumstances surrounding the alleged attack.
The incident has sparked concerns about the level of political violence in Sokoto State, with many calling for calm and restraint. The police have yet to comment on the allegations, but it is understood that an investigation is underway. The outcome of the investigation is expected to shed more light on the incident and potentially determine the next course of action.
Key points
- The ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan'iya, accused APC supporters of attacking 5,000 women and youths at a peaceful rally.
- The alleged attack resulted in several women being injured, with some having their veils torn, and vehicles belonging to the ADC being damaged.
- The incident has sparked a heated debate about the state of politics in Sokoto State, with both parties trading accusations and denials.
