Police officers have attacked journalists covering the Kano Governorship Election Petition Tribunal as it is scheduled to deliver its judgment.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that among the journalists attacked were Salim Umar Ibrahim of Daily Trust and BBC Hausa Reporter, Zahraddeen Lawal.
The attack on the journalists comes amid heightened tension in the state ahead of the tribunal’s judgment. The All Progressive Congress (APC) is challenging the victory of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 gubernatorial election.
This publication learnt that the police officers on duty asked the journalists to move about 10 meters from the Court premises. Some officers then pounced on the journalists, alleging they were taking pictures.
While some officers went after the BBC reporter trying to seize his phone, others held the Daily Trust reporter and forcefully collected his phone, damaging the screen.
Residents have expressed apprehension on the likely aftermath of the tribunal’s decision, with many saying they would rather remain indoors to avoid being caught up in any likely breakdown of law and order.
There have also been widespread allegations of bribery of the judges. Reports have it that the expectation of the judgment has generated frenzy in the camp of both parties involved
Meanwhile, the State Police Spokesman, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, assured Kano residents that there is no need for concern following the impending tribunal decision. He stated that the State Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Usaini Gumel, in collaboration with other security agencies, has ordered the deployment of personnel and equipment to strategic locations within the state capital. This move aims to safeguard lives and property, preventing any disruptions or breaches of the law.
In addition to these deployments, the CP has emphasised the continued ban on unauthorised gatherings and public processions, including protests or celebrations.
Watch a video of the security presence at the venue of the court below:
