The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised concerns over the alleged illegal detention of some of its members and supporters in Kebbi State. The party has petitioned the Nigerian Police Force and the Police Service Commission (PSC), seeking their intervention in the matter. According to the party, the circumstances surrounding the arrests require an independent examination to determine whether due process was followed.
The Kebbi ADC Caucus in the National Assembly, led by Senator Garba Maidoki, who represents Kebbi South, addressed a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday. The briefing was organised jointly with the party’s Kebbi State executive, led by its chairman, Safiyanu Bala. Maidoki stated that the party was not opposed to legitimate police investigations but expressed concerns about the exercise of police powers and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Maidoki emphasized that membership of the ADC should not shield anyone from investigation where there is credible evidence of wrongdoing. However, he argued that political affiliation should not be treated as evidence of criminality or become a reason for depriving anyone of their liberty. The senator said any criminal allegation against members of the party should be investigated through lawful procedures and that those involved should be given the rights guaranteed under the Constitution.
The ADC has decided to formally petition the Police Service Commission and the Inspector-General of Police over the conduct of some officers allegedly involved in the matter. The party is seeking an investigation into allegations of political interference, arbitrary detention, unlawful instructions, and other forms of improper conduct. Maidoki disclosed that the complaints should be examined to establish whether the officers acted within the law, police regulations, and professional standards.
The party further said it would take the matter to Amnesty International, particularly over allegations that police powers may have been used excessively against opposition members and supporters. Maidoki appealed to the Inspector-General to examine the cases presented to his office and take whatever action is appropriate within its powers. He also urged the Judiciary to exercise the highest degree of circumspection, scrutiny, independence, and fidelity to the law whenever orders affecting the liberty of citizens are sought.
The Kebbi ADC chairman, Safiyanu Bala, also spoke at the briefing, saying the party considered allegations of unlawful detention a serious matter because of the implications for fundamental rights, due process, and the rule of law. Bala emphasized that the issue should not be viewed simply as a dispute between political parties or individuals but rather as a matter of principles that should govern a democratic society and protect every citizen, regardless of party, status, or political persuasion.
The ADC has expanded its political structure in recent weeks, including the release of its governorship candidates across several states. In Kebbi, former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, is the party’s governorship candidate for the 2027 election. The party has also been active in preparations for the National Assembly elections, with Maidoki Garba Musa as the ADC candidate for Kebbi South.
Key points
- The African Democratic Congress has petitioned the Nigerian Police Force and the Police Service Commission over the alleged illegal detention of its members and supporters in Kebbi State.
- The party is seeking an investigation into allegations of political interference, arbitrary detention, unlawful instructions, and other forms of improper conduct.
- The ADC has also taken the matter to Amnesty International, citing concerns over the excessive use of police powers against opposition members and supporters.
