A solidarity rally by supporters of the African Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Kaduna State, Isa Ashiru, turned chaotic on Wednesday as police and other security operatives dispersed the protesters with tear gas.
The development sparked accusations of intimidation from the ADC supporters, who alleged that the police and personnel of the Kaduna State Vigilance Service, popularly known as KADVIS, were deployed to frustrate their rally.
But the Kaduna State Police Command said it did not disrupt any lawful political gathering, explaining that its personnel intervened after the protesters allegedly blocked a major road, causing heavy traffic and a breakdown of public order.
The incident occurred on the day the Independent National Electoral Commission’s timetable opened the campaign season for the 2027 governorship election.
Addressing a press conference in Kaduna on Wednesday, the leader of the ADC youth groups, Ibrahim Maikudi, alleged that the group had obtained approval from relevant authorities before embarking on the solidarity walk.
