… pledges N500,000 support to victims
Kaduna State’s political climate is rapidly deteriorating following a series of violent attacks on peaceful opposition gatherings.
These warning signs have however prompted a swift condemnation from African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, Shuaibu Idris Miqati.
In a decisive statement issued on Wednesday, Miqati denounced two separate incidents of targeted violence over the past ten days.
According to him, the first assault targeted an ADC solidarity walk, where peaceful supporters were met with unwarranted brutal force. The second clash occurred just two days ago during a welcome reception for governorship aspirant, Rt. Hon. Isa Ashiru Kudan, leaving several supporters injured and multiple vehicles vandalised with smashed windows.
Miqati, therefore, directly called on Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, to rein in members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and halt the escalating lawlessness.
He warned that political thuggery risks weaponising the state’s vulnerable, unemployed youth, further endangering a populace already plagued by routine daylight robberies, violence and banditry.
While also acknowledging that law enforcement is heavily stretched by regional insecurity, Miqati urged security agencies to maintain absolute neutrality.
He cautioned that taking partisan sides would severely exacerbate the existing trust deficit in the polity.
Moving forward, he advised ADC organisers to proactively coordinate with security agencies to ensure proper protection covers for future events.
Demonstrating immediate leadership, Miqati expressed solidarity with the victims and pledged ₦500,000 to launch an Appeal Fund, which will directly finance the medical bills of the injured and cover repair costs for the damaged vehicles.
In his final appeal for calm, Miqati reminded all political actors that while strategies and policies differ, the collective focus must remain on safely moving Kaduna State forward.
