Former Sokoto State governor and African Democratic Congress chieftain, Aminu Tambuwal, has strongly condemned an alleged attack on his party's governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan'iya, and members of his convoy. The incident reportedly occurred around Sokoto Airport on Friday, October 30, 2026. According to Tambuwal, the attack involved personnel of the Sokoto Marshal and Sokoto State Community Guard.
The alleged attack involved the blocking of Dan'iya's convoy, gunshots being fired, damage to his vehicle, and the detention of two Department of State Services officers attached to his security detail. Tambuwal described the incident as "deeply disturbing" and called for a thorough investigation. He emphasized that every Nigerian has the right to move freely, associate with a political party, and seek political office in accordance with the law.
Tambuwal urged the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and other relevant security agencies to conduct an independent and impartial investigation into the incident. He stressed that anyone found culpable should be brought to justice. The former governor also called on the Sokoto State Government to ensure that all security outfits under its authority operate lawfully and impartially.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of political candidates and their supporters in Sokoto State. Tambuwal emphasized that security outfits have a duty to protect all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, and must not become instruments of political intimidation. He urged his members and supporters to remain calm and resolute.
Despite the alleged attack, Tambuwal stated that the African Democratic Congress remains committed to peaceful political engagement and the rule of law. He confirmed that the party's scheduled presidential campaign flag-off on November 4, 2026, will proceed as planned. The former governor emphasized that no amount of intimidation or threats will deter the party from participating in the electoral process.
Tambuwal's statement has been seen as a call to action for the security agencies to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future. The incident has also sparked concerns about the level of political tension in Sokoto State ahead of the elections. The African Democratic Congress has urged its supporters to exercise restraint and remain committed to peaceful political engagement.
The alleged attack on Dan'iya's convoy is currently under investigation, and it remains to be seen what actions will be taken against those responsible. Tambuwal's condemnation of the incident has been seen as a strong statement in support of his party's candidate and a call for the protection of all citizens' rights to participate in the electoral process.
Key points
- Aminu Tambuwal condemns alleged attack on Sokoto ADC candidate Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan'iya and his convoy.
- The incident involved personnel of the Sokoto Marshal and Sokoto State Community Guard blocking Dan'iya's convoy, firing gunshots, damaging his vehicle, and detaining two DSS officers.
- Tambuwal calls for a thorough investigation and urges the Sokoto State Government to ensure that all security outfits operate lawfully and impartially.
