The Kaduna State Police Command has launched an investigation into a political meeting allegedly linked to former governor Nasir El-Rufai, which turned violent on Saturday.
According to the police, the gathering—reportedly organised under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Coalition—was held without prior notification to security agencies. The event quickly degenerated into chaos, with sporadic gunshots and violence allegedly carried out by thugs connected to the former governor.
Police spokesman, DSP Mansir Hassan, said in a statement that preliminary findings showed that “political gangsters and thugs attached to the former Governor” fired gunshots, causing public panic and disrupting peace.
Hassan warned that no individual would be spared if found guilty, regardless of their political status. “Anyone, no matter how highly placed, who violates the law will face its full weight,” he stressed.
The ADC leadership has since distanced itself from the incident, denying knowledge of the meeting and reaffirming its commitment to due process and the rule of law.
The Command also cautioned hotels and event centres against hosting political gatherings without first notifying security agencies, adding that such facilities would henceforth be held liable if violence erupts.
In the meantime, the police have suspended all unauthorised political meetings in the state until proper security arrangements are in place.
Saturday’s violent disruption reportedly occurred during the inauguration of an opposition transition committee in Kaduna, which included members of APC (a faction opposed to the state leadership), PDP, SDP, NNPP, LP, and ADC.
