ADC lawmakers ask IGP to probe arrest of party members in Kebbi

Lawmakers elected on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have called on the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to investigate the circumstances behind the arrest and detention of some party members in Kebbi State.

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The lawmakers, under the National Assembly Caucus of the ADC, alleged the arrests were unlawful and linked to the affected persons’ political affiliation.

Garba Maidoki, the senator representing Kebbi South Senatorial District, who addressed journalists on behalf of the caucus, said the arrested party members’ fundamental rights had been violated.

Mr Maidoki said the caucus would submit a formal complaint against the police officers involved to the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the IGP, saying this would help prevent similar incidents in the future.

“We therefore appeal to the Inspector-General to examine the cases presented to his office and take whatever action is appropriate within its powers,” he said.

The senator also said the caucus would bring the matter to the attention of Amnesty International over what he described as allegations of excessive or arbitrary use of police powers against opposition supporters.

“We will also bring the relevant cases to the attention of Amnesty International, particularly with respect to allegations of excessive or arbitrary use of police powers against political opponents and supporters of the opposition.

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“Where citizens are detained or subjected to criminal proceedings in circumstances suggesting that their political activities may have influenced the actions taken against them, such allegations raise legitimate human rights and democratic concerns,” he said.

Mr Maidoki also appealed to the judiciary to ensure that the cases involving the party members were handled in accordance with the law.

“We wish to make a respectful but strong appeal to the Judiciary to exercise the highest degree of circumspection, scrutiny, independence and fidelity to the law whenever orders affecting the liberty of citizens are sought.

“We trust that the Judiciary will continue to serve as an independent safeguard for the rights of every citizen, irrespective of political affiliation,” he said.

The development comes as the ADC expands its political activities in Kebbi ahead of the 2027 general elections. Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, inaugurated a 600-member campaign council for the party in the state in August, with Mr Maidoki among its senatorial candidates.