ADC lawmakers seek police inquiry into arrests of Kebbi party members

Lawmakers elected on the platform of the African Democratic Congress have asked Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to investigate the arrest and detention of some party members in Kebbi State. The National Assembly caucus of the ADC said the arrests were unlawful and connected to the affected people’s political affiliation. Senator Garba Maidoki, who represents Kebbi South, made the allegation while addressing journalists on behalf of the caucus.

Maidoki said the party members’ fundamental rights had been violated. He said the caucus would submit a formal complaint to the Inspector-General and the Police Service Commission about the officers involved. The senator said an investigation could establish the circumstances of the arrests and help prevent similar incidents.

He also asked the police leadership to take appropriate action within its powers after reviewing the cases submitted to it. The ADC caucus said it would bring the matter to Amnesty International’s attention because of what Maidoki described as allegations of excessive or arbitrary police powers against opposition supporters. He said detentions or criminal proceedings influenced by political activity would raise human-rights and democratic concerns.

Maidoki also appealed to the judiciary to handle the cases in accordance with the law. He urged the courts to scrutinise applications affecting citizens’ liberty and to remain independent regardless of political affiliation. The development comes as the ADC expands its political activity in Kebbi ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami inaugurated a 600-member campaign council for the party in the state in August, with Maidoki among its senatorial candidates. The source material does not include a response from the police, the Police Service Commission or the arrested party members.