The inauguration of a multi-party transition committee in Kaduna State, intended to foster collaboration among opposition parties, descended into chaos on Saturday as suspected political thugs disrupted the event, leaving a trail of injuries and property damage in their wake. The committee, a coalition comprising a dissenting faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Labour Party (LP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aimed to create a platform for unified action in the state’s political landscape. However, the hopeful beginning was shattered by the intrusion of armed hoodlums who attacked participants with cutlasses, clubs, and stones, transforming the inauguration into a scene of violence and fear. This incident throws a harsh spotlight on the volatile political climate in Kaduna State and raises serious concerns about the potential for escalating tensions in the lead-up to future elections.

Eyewitness accounts paint a disturbing picture of the attack. The assailants, armed with crude weapons, stormed the venue and unleashed a barrage of violence upon attendees. Several individuals sustained injuries in the ensuing melee, and vehicles were vandalized in the uncontrolled outburst. What makes the incident even more concerning is the alleged inaction of the police officers deployed to secure the event. Witnesses claim that the police stood by idly as the violence unfolded, leading to accusations of complicity and raising questions about the neutrality of the security forces in the charged political atmosphere. The apparent failure of the police to intervene swiftly and effectively not only allowed the violence to escalate but also eroded public trust in the ability of law enforcement to maintain order and protect citizens’ safety during political gatherings.

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who was present at the inauguration, vehemently condemned the attack, labeling it a dangerous descent into lawlessness. El-Rufai expressed his deep concern over the escalating political thuggery in the state and accused senior police officers, including an Assistant Commissioner of Police, of passively observing the violence without intervening. His strong words reflect a growing anxiety about the normalization of violence in political discourse and the potential for such incidents to undermine democratic processes. El-Rufai’s vow to take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence of such violence and his intention to escalate the matter to the Police Service Commission underscores the seriousness of the incident and the need for accountability within the police force.

The attack has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the future of political engagement in Kaduna State. Jafaru Sani, the ADC National Vice Chairman (North-West), described the incident as “sad and unfortunate,” highlighting the state’s history of political violence. His statement reflects a broader worry about the cyclical nature of political violence in the region and the potential for such events to deter peaceful participation in the democratic process. Despite the attack, Sani affirmed the resolve of the opposition parties to continue their political activities, emphasizing their commitment to democratic engagement despite the threats and intimidation. This resilience in the face of violence is crucial for upholding democratic values and ensuring that fear does not stifle political participation.

While the opposition parties and eyewitnesses pointed fingers at potential instigators, the ruling APC in Kaduna State denied any involvement in the attack. Alhaji Yahaya Baba-Pate, the Kaduna State APC Secretary, categorically denied any party sponsorship or support of political thuggery, asserting the right of opposition groups to conduct their activities without harassment. This denial, however, has done little to quell the suspicions and anxieties surrounding the incident. The attack has intensified the existing political tensions and created a climate of distrust among the various political actors in the state.

The Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed that the command would release a formal statement on the incident. This forthcoming statement will be crucial in clarifying the circumstances of the attack, addressing the allegations of police inaction, and outlining the steps that will be taken to hold those responsible accountable. A thorough and transparent investigation is essential to restore public trust in the police and to deter future acts of political violence. The incident underscores the urgent need for all political stakeholders in Kaduna State to work together to de-escalate tensions, promote peaceful dialogue, and ensure that the democratic process is not overshadowed by violence and intimidation. The future of political stability in Kaduna hinges on the ability of all parties to reject violence, uphold the rule of law, and prioritize the peaceful pursuit of their political objectives. Only through collaborative efforts and a commitment to peaceful coexistence can Kaduna State move forward and build a truly democratic and inclusive political landscape.

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