JUST IN: Police launch investigation over violence at ADC gathering in Kaduna

The Kaduna State Police Command has launched an investigation into a political meeting reportedly linked to former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, which descended into violence and sporadic gunfire allegedly fired by suspected thugs.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the gathering, convened without prior notification to security agencies, was disrupted after gunshots were fired, causing panic and a breach of public peace.

According to preliminary findings, the meeting was associated with a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, though the party’s authentic leadership has denied knowledge of the event and distanced itself from its organisers.

“The investigation is ongoing, and anyone found culpable, regardless of status or position, will face the full weight of the law,” the police statement read.

The Command further warned hotels, event centres and other facilities in the state against hosting political meetings without notifying security agencies, stressing that such venues would also be held accountable if their premises were used for unlawful activities.

Meanwhile, a coalition of concerned ADC members, partners and stakeholders across Kaduna’s 23 local government areas addressed a press conference in the state capital, accusing El-Rufai and some of his allies of working to undermine the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Spokesman of the group, Hon. Adamu Ahmed Dattijo, alleged that there were moves to impose parallel structures, polarise members and hijack the coalition process.

He warned that unless urgent steps were taken, the ADC risked entering the next elections divided and weakened.

“We are not against anyone’s political ambition. What we oppose is the hijack of our party by a few individuals who have no respect for structures, unity and democratic principles,” Dattijo stated, urging the ADC national leadership to intervene.

The developments have heightened political tension in Kaduna, with the police vowing to ensure accountability, while party stakeholders continue to press for internal cohesion and discipline ahead of 2027.