Aminu Tambuwal, a former governor of Sokoto State and a leading figure in the African Democratic Congress, has denounced an alleged assault on the party’s Sokoto governorship candidate, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, and people travelling in his convoy near Sokoto Airport.
Alleged incident near Sokoto Airport
Tambuwal said the reported confrontation took place on Friday, October 30, 2026. In a statement issued on Saturday through his X account, he said Dan’iya’s convoy was intercepted around the airport.
- Personnel said to be from the Sokoto Marshal and the Sokoto State Community Guard allegedly stopped the convoy.
- Gunfire was reportedly discharged during the incident.
- Dan’iya’s vehicle was said to have been damaged.
- Two Department of State Services officers assigned to the candidate’s security team were allegedly detained.
Tambuwal described the claims as highly troubling and said he strongly condemned the reported attack on the ADC candidate and his entourage.
Call for independent security investigation
The former governor urged the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other relevant security bodies to open a prompt, comprehensive and impartial investigation. He said any individuals found responsible should face justice.
He argued that Nigerians are entitled under the law to travel freely, join political parties and contest for elected office, and said no one should be subjected to intimidation, violence or harassment for exercising those rights.
- Political disagreements and grievances should be pursued through lawful and peaceful channels, Tambuwal said.
- He called for electoral choices to be decided by voters rather than by weapons.
- Security organisations must safeguard every citizen irrespective of political allegiance, he said.
- He warned that such bodies must not be used as tools for political coercion.
Appeal to state authorities and ADC supporters
Tambuwal called on the Sokoto State Government to ensure that security organisations under its control act within the law and treat all political interests fairly.
He said the alleged intimidation would not prevent the ADC from going ahead with its planned presidential campaign launch on November 4, 2026. The party, he said, remained committed to peaceful political participation and respect for the rule of law.
He also appealed to ADC members and supporters to stay calm, show restraint and remain determined.
“Sokoto belongs to all its people. Nigeria belongs to all of us,” Tambuwal said, adding that democracy must guarantee every citizen the ability to participate freely and without fear.
