Suspected thugs attack journalists at APC rally in Kano

An attack by suspected thugs on Saturday targeted journalists and other passengers following an All Progressives Congress (APC) political rally in Kano State, resulting in damage to a Radio Nigeria Pyramid FM vehicle.

The assault took place shortly after the conclusion of an APC-related political gathering held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. As journalists were departing the venue after covering the event, attackers reportedly targeted them. Armed with machetes and knives, the assailants struck the Radio Nigeria vehicle, shattering its windows and damaging other sections of the bus.

Five journalists were caught in the incident. The affected media professionals include Shafiu Abdullahi Panshekara, Abdulmajid Habib Isa Tukuntawa, Yakubu Abubakar Gwagwarwa, and Ibrahim Hussaini, all of Radio Nigeria, Pyramid FM Kano, alongside Abdulbaki Ali Ahmed Sharifai of Guarantee Radio.

The vehicle also carried several other passengers, including the orderly to Mariya Mahmud Bunkure, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory; personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS); and the political adviser to Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State.

Reports indicate that the attackers persisted in striking the bus despite the presence of the journalists and security officials inside, causing widespread panic and confusion among the occupants as they traveled back from the political rally.

Why It Matters

Kano State is historically one of Nigeria's most politically volatile regions, characterized by intense rivalries between major political factions that have occasionally escalated into violence. Press freedom organizations have long raised concerns about the safety of journalists in Nigeria, who frequently face harassment, threats, and physical violence while covering political campaigns and public rallies. This incident underscores the ongoing safety challenges faced by media professionals and security personnel during political gatherings in the country, where local youth gangs are sometimes mobilized to disrupt public order.