Many injured, vehicles vandalised as thugs disrupt El-Rufai’s SDP–ADC meeting in Kaduna

A violent attack marred a coalition meeting of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna on Thursday, as suspected government-sponsored hoodlums stormed the venue, injuring participants and destroying property.

The gathering, chaired by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was taking place at the Conference Hall of NUT Endwell in Magadishu Layout when the assailants struck. Windscreens of several vehicles — including El-Rufai’s — were shattered, while windows of the conference hall were also damaged.

According to eyewitnesses, the attack occurred in full view of armed policemen who had been stationed at the venue by the state government to halt the meeting. Multiple attendees reportedly sustained severe injuries.

Sources at the meeting alleged that the state government had earlier pressured event centres across Kaduna to cancel bookings secured by the opposition.

“This is an indication of the bloody politics that lies ahead heralding the political squabble between El-Rufai and his former godson, Governor Uba Sani,” one source said.

Another top source claimed: “The thugs were mobilised by some government officials by one SSA on Special Duties known as Hon. Babaji to disrupt the opposition.”

(SAHARA REPORTERS)