Borno police detain Ndume’s aide and supporters amid plans for a rally. Discover the reasons behind the crackdown and the implications.
Hon. Usman Aliyu (Babandi), a Legislative Aide to Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who has been facing challenges in his role as senator, along with two supporters – Mallam Ibrahim Adamu and Alhaji Tasiu Hassan Malgwi have been arrested by the Borno State Police Command under the leadership of CP Yusufu Lawal.
According to credible sources, their alleged plan of organizing a solidarity rally in Biu, located within the Southern Borno Senatorial District after the senator’s dismissal as Chief Whip of the Senate led to their detention.
The current situation arises amidst declarations from the Presidency assuring Nigerians of their constitutional right to engage in peaceful protests. Furthermore, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has given assurances that appropriate security measures will be put in place for such demonstrations.
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The demonstration that was scheduled to voice support for Senator Ndume last Sunday in Biu has been postponed. Multiple youth, women’s groups, clubs and organizations were planning on attending the rally; however fragile security conditions made this endeavor unfeasible. The Borno State Government also urged individuals not to partake in any form of political or protest activity at this time.
Senator Ndume was stripped of his role as Chief Whip by the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Senate Caucus after he voiced concerns on Arise TV about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, specifically in regards to hunger and insecurity.
Junaid Jubrin Maiva, Ndume’s Senior Legislative Aide (Media), issued a press statement notifying the public that the Biu rally planned for July 28th, 2024 has been called off. This action was taken to avoid clashes with a national protest and prevent any potential disruptions from occurring.
Confirming her husband’s arrest along with two others, Mrs. Amina Kachallah appealed to the police for his release and highlighted how their family has been suffering ever since he was detained.
According to reports, Senator Ndume is said to be out of the country on official business and therefore unavailable for comment.
DSP Kenneth Daso, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that three individuals were arrested by the Borno State Police Command in connection to a planned Solidarity Rally for Senator Ndume in Biu town. Based on an intelligence report, he affirmed their custody and investigation: “The suspects are currently under investigation.”
The senator’s supporters were observed by our correspondent to be experiencing an increase in tension, only 2 days prior to the nationwide protests scheduled.
