APC supporters injured in Katsina as violence disrupts Radda campaign launch

Political proceedings in the Funtua Senatorial Zone of Katsina State were interrupted by violent clashes on Wednesday, resulting in injuries to multiple All Progressives Congress (APC) backer and damage to their automobiles. The incident occurred ahead of the scheduled flag-off ceremony for the Tinubu–Dikko campaign, where Governor Dikko Umaru Radda was set to launch his re-election bid for the 2027 governorship election. Despite the attacks, the governor proceeded with the planned event at the venue in Funtua.

Witnesses and affected supporters reported that groups of suspected political thugs intercepted vehicles travelling from Malumfashi to Funtua. Those affected reported that assailants hurled rocks and other debris to shatter car windows and attack the occupants within the vehicles. The assault resulted in physical injuries to multiple individuals and significant damage to several vehicles. Abubakar Lawal, one of the affected supporters, detailed how the group was targeted while en route to the campaign venue. The injured parties have appealed to the appropriate officials to pinpoint and prosecute the individuals accountable for the unrest. Furthermore, they have pressed law enforcement bodies to bolster protective measures to avert comparable disturbances during future electoral campaigns throughout the region.

Background

The campaign flag-off is part of Governor Radda’s statewide initiative designed to present his administration’s development agenda and performance record directly to residents. This electoral effort encompasses the state’s three senatorial districts, 34 local government councils, and 361 wards as part of the groundwork for the 2027 gubernatorial contest. At the time of reporting, no official statement had been issued by authorities regarding the attacks on the APC supporters or the damage to their vehicles. However, party sources indicated to reporters that the incident stemmed from internal differences within the APC. These sources expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved internally. The violence highlights tensions surrounding the upcoming electoral process in Katsina State, where political actors are actively mobilising support ahead of the 2027 polls.

Why it matters

The incident raises concerns about the safety of political supporters and the stability of the campaign environment in Katsina State. The use of physical force and property damage by suspected thugs underscores the risks associated with political mobilisation in the region. Affected supporters have emphasised the need for law enforcement intervention to hold perpetrators accountable and to ensure safer conditions for future political gatherings. The lack of an immediate official response from authorities has left the situation unresolved, with party insiders suggesting that internal party dynamics may be a contributing factor. The event serves as a test for security agencies to manage political tensions and protect citizens from violence during the campaign period.

What happens next

There are no stated next steps, specific dates for further action, or pending decisions mentioned in the source material regarding the investigation or resolution of the incident. The governor has already proceeded with the campaign flag-off, and the broader statewide campaign is expected to continue across the designated zones and wards. No further official statements or scheduled events were detailed in the available information.