The Governorship Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State, Shuaibu Idris Miqati, has condemned the recent attacks on supporters of opposition parties in the state, describing the incidents as unnecessary and capable of worsening political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.
Miqati, in a statement, expressed concern over two separate incidents in Kaduna town within the last ten days, alleging that supporters of the ADC and those who organised a reception for another governorship aspirant were attacked during peaceful political activities.
He said several people were injured during a planned solidarity walk organised by ADC supporters for one of the governorship aspirants, while another group of supporters who gathered to welcome former Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Isa Ashiru Kudan, after his return from Lesser Hajj, were also attacked.
According to him, vehicles belonging to some of the supporters were damaged, with windscreens and side-door glasses reportedly smashed during the incident.
“This is clearly uncalled for, and it is needless violence,” Miqati said, warning that continued political violence could create opportunities for unemployed and angry youths to cause further disruption in communities under the guise of political activities.
The ADC candidate called on the Kaduna State Government, particularly Governor Uba Sani, to urge members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to desist from acts of violence and lawlessness.
He also appealed to political parties and their supporters to adopt proactive measures by notifying security agencies ahead of rallies, processions and other political activities in order to facilitate adequate security arrangements.
Miqati, however, acknowledged the pressure on security agencies as a result of the prevailing insecurity in the country, stressing that peaceful and law-abiding citizens should be protected during lawful political activities.
He said citizens were already facing attacks and loss of valuables in different parts of the state, both during the day and at night, warning that political violence could further aggravate the situation.
The ADC candidate also sympathised with those injured and those whose vehicles were damaged during the incidents.
He pledged N500,000 to kick-start an appeal fund aimed at assisting affected supporters with the cost of repairing damaged vehicles and settling hospital bills incurred by those injured.
Miqati further appealed to members and supporters of all political parties to remain calm and tolerant, saying that although political actors might differ in their mechanisms and policies, they should be united by the objective of moving Kaduna State forward.
He urged political stakeholders to avoid actions capable of escalating tensions and undermining peaceful coexistence in the state.
