Political Violence Erupts in Bauchi: One Dead, 15 Injured in PDP-APC Clash

One person has reportedly been killed, and 15 others injured following a violent clash between members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State.

According to the PDP, the attack was carried out by political thugs loyal to the APC in Duguri, Alkaleri Local Government Area. Speaking at a press briefing at the Government House in Bauchi, the Director-General of the PDP Campaign Council, Farouk Mustapha, condemned the violence and accused the APC of instigating the attack despite a peace accord signed by all gubernatorial candidates.

“Today is one of the saddest days in the political history of Bauchi State,” Mustapha stated, noting that while other candidates signed the peace agreement, APC candidate Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar (rtd) was absent, sending his deputy in his place.

Mustapha alleged that Abubakar instead embarked on a campaign tour to Duguri with heavily armed political thugs and security personnel. “The APC gubernatorial candidate moved into Duguri with thousands of political thugs, as well as conventional and non-conventional security outfits who were well armed to the brink,” he claimed.

The PDP further accused APC thugs of vandalizing PDP billboards, offices, and vehicles, before attacking residents. “The APC gang leaders unleashed terror, chanting abusive words and burning PDP offices, buses, and Keke NAPEP. When the people of Duguri resisted, the thugs, along with security personnel, opened fire on unarmed civilians.”

One victim, identified as Mallam Maiunguwa Shata, was allegedly shot dead in the attack, while several others sustained injuries.

The incident has heightened tensions ahead of the governorship and House of Assembly elections, with calls for security agencies to investigate and hold the perpetrators accountable.