Violence disrupted the Tinubu–Dikko campaign flag-off in the Funtua Senatorial Zone of Katsina State, leaving several All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters injured and their vehicles damaged. The incident occurred on Wednesday as Governor Dikko Umaru Radda was scheduled to flag off his 2027 re-election campaign. Eyewitnesses reported that aggrieved political thugs attacked supporters traveling to the event, causing widespread destruction and injuries.
According to Abubakar Lawal, one of the affected supporters, their vehicles were attacked by suspected political thugs while traveling through Malumfashi to Funtua. The attackers used stones and other objects to smash vehicle windows and assault passengers, resulting in significant damage to several vehicles and multiple injuries. The victims have called on the relevant authorities to take action against those responsible for the violence.
The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in the state, with victims urging security agencies to strengthen security arrangements to prevent similar incidents during subsequent campaign activities. Despite the reported violence, Governor Radda proceeded with the planned campaign flag-off, which forms part of his statewide campaign to showcase his administration's development agenda and record of performance.
The event is part of Governor Radda's efforts to engage with residents across the state's three senatorial zones, 34 local government areas, and 361 wards ahead of the 2027 governorship election. Party sources have attributed the incident to internal differences within the party, but have expressed confidence that the matter will be resolved.
The violence has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for calm and urging the authorities to take decisive action against those responsible. As of the time of reporting, there was no official statement from the authorities regarding the attacks on the APC supporters and damage to their vehicles.
The incident has highlighted the need for improved security measures during campaign activities, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 governorship election. Governor Radda's administration has been working to promote development and stability in the state, but the latest incident has raised concerns about the potential for further disruptions.
The authorities have yet to comment on the incident, but party sources have assured that the matter will be addressed internally. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges that often accompany political campaigns in Nigeria, and the need for stakeholders to work together to promote peace and stability.
Key points
- Several APC supporters were injured and vehicles damaged in the violence.
- The incident has been attributed to internal differences within the APC.
- Governor Radda proceeded with the campaign flag-off despite the reported violence.
