Violence Erupts at Opposition Party Inauguration in Kaduna State
A transition committee inauguration for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State was disrupted by suspected thugs on Saturday, resulting in attacks on participants and property damage. The committee, comprising members from various opposition parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) faction, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Labour Party (LP), and the ADC, was holding its inauguration when the violence occurred.
Eyewitnesses reported that hoodlums armed with cutlasses, clubs, and stones stormed the event, prompting a tense and volatile atmosphere. Despite the chaos, the inauguration continued. Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who attended the event, condemned the attack, describing it as “a dangerous descent into lawlessness.” He expressed outrage at the perceived inaction of deployed policemen, accusing them of complicity in the mayhem.
El-Rufai warned that political thuggery in the state must be stopped, alleging that senior police officers, including an Assistant Commissioner of Police, failed to intervene. He vowed to escalate the matter to the Police Service Commission, claiming that the police had violated regulations by not intervening. However, the Kaduna State Police Command blamed El-Rufai for the incident, stating that he failed to notify the police and other relevant security agencies about the meeting, despite repeated warnings and advice.
The police command has commenced an investigation into the alleged political violence and shooting incidents. A group of concerned ADC members and stakeholders has also distanced themselves from the inauguration, accusing El-Rufai of attempting to hijack the coalition structure for personal gain. They urged the ADC National Working Committee to call him to order, citing his refusal to recognize the duly elected Kaduna State ADC executive committee and other respected stakeholders.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions and conflicts within the political landscape of Kaduna State. As the 2027 general elections approach, the situation is likely to remain volatile, with various parties and factions vying for power. The ability of the authorities to maintain law and order and prevent further outbreaks of violence will be crucial in ensuring a peaceful and democratic electoral process.
