The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano State has condemned a violent attack on its members during a political defection event in Rogo Local Government Area, stating the incident underscores rising political tensions in the state.
The attack occurred on Tuesday in Ruwan Bago ward as a prominent local politician was publicly leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the NNPP. In a statement, the NNPP’s publicity secretary, Ibrahim Karaye, alleged that the assailants were thugs aligned with the state’s ruling All Progressives Congress ( APC). This claim directly implicates the opposition’s main rival in the escalating conflict.
According to the party, the violence resulted in eleven NNPP members sustaining injuries. Two vehicles were damaged, including one belonging to the defecting politician. Several mobile phones were also stolen from attendees. Karaye described the assault as “unacceptable” and a affront to democratic principles.
The NNPP has formally demanded a comprehensive investigation by security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible. The statement called on law enforcement to prevent a recurrence of such political violence. Furthermore, Karaye urged the APC and its leadership to refrain from actions that could inflame political discord, emphasizing that opposition politics must not be met with physical suppression.
This incident highlights the volatile nature of political competition in Kano, a key northwestern state. Defections, common ahead of elections, often intensify rivalries. The NNPP, as a major opposition party, framed the attack as an attempt to intimidate its growing support base. The party reiterated that political pluralism is fundamental to democracy and cannot be sustained through violence.
The situation now places pressure on security forces to act impartially to de-escalate tensions. Observers note that unresolved political violence risks undermining the stability required for credible future elections in the state. The APC has not yet issued a public response to the NNPP’s allegations.
