The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, has accused suspected supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) of disrupting a peaceful rally involving about 5,000 women and youths.
The rally reportedly began around 10 am on Tuesday near the Old Savannah Bank area in Sokoto and was heading towards the ADC state secretariat when the incident occurred.
In a statement released through his media aide, Aminu Abdullahi, Dan’iya condemned the alleged attack, describing it as a violation of democratic rights and the freedom of women to participate in peaceful political activities.
He claimed that several women sustained injuries, some had their veils torn, and vehicles belonging to the ADC were damaged. He also alleged that valuables were stolen during the incident.
The ADC candidate accused APC chieftain S.A. Bajare and the party’s youth leader, Abdulrashid Baraka, of allegedly leading or coordinating the attack. He called on the Sokoto State Commissioner of Police to investigate the incident and arrest anyone found responsible.
Dan’iya also urged the state government to take measures to prevent further political violence and ensure that political parties can carry out lawful activities without intimidation.
He questioned why women participating in a peaceful rally were allegedly targeted, arguing that citizens have constitutional rights to freedom of movement, peaceful assembly and association.
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However, Malami Muhammad Galadanchi Bajare, Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Rural Roads, denied the allegations, describing them as fabricated claims intended to shift blame onto the APC.
Bajare maintained that the APC Sokoto Central Senatorial District Zonal Office had operated for more than 12 years without its members causing any breach of peace.
He instead accused ADC members of attacking APC youths and alleged that they seized two motorcycles, although one was later returned.
According to Bajare, officers of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were present and witnessed the incident involving supporters of both political parties.
The allegations and counterclaims have raised concerns about political tensions in Sokoto State, with calls for an investigation to establish what happened and identify those responsible.
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