ADC lawmakers urge police chief to investigate party members' arrests in Kebbi

Lawmakers from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have called on the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to look into the arrests and detention of some party members in Kebbi State.

The ADC lawmakers, part of the National Assembly Caucus, claim the arrests were unlawful and connected to the political beliefs of those involved.

Garba Maidoki, the senator for Kebbi South, spoke to reporters on behalf of the caucus. He stated that the basic rights of the arrested party members had been violated.

Maidoki said the caucus plans to file a formal complaint against the police officers involved with both the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the IGP. He believes this step will help stop similar events from happening in the future.

"We therefore appeal to the Inspector-General to examine the cases presented to his office and take whatever action is appropriate within its powers," he said.

He also mentioned that they will inform Amnesty International about the situation. Maidoki described the arrests as instances of excessive or unfair use of police power against political opponents.

"We will also bring the relevant cases to the attention of Amnesty International, particularly with respect to allegations of excessive or arbitrary use of police powers against political opponents and supporters of the opposition."

Maidoki added that when citizens are arrested or face criminal charges that seem to be linked to their political activities, it raises serious human rights and democratic issues.

He urged the judiciary to make sure that the cases involving the party members are treated fairly according to the law.

"We wish to make a respectful but strong appeal to the Judiciary to exercise the highest degree of circumspection, scrutiny, independence and fidelity to the law whenever orders affecting the liberty of citizens are sought."

Maidoki expressed hope that the judiciary would remain an independent protector of every citizen's rights, no matter their political affiliation.

This situation arises as the ADC increases its political activities in Kebbi in preparation for the 2027 general elections. Abubakar Malami, a former Attorney-General of the Federation, set up a 600-member campaign council for the party in the state in August, with Maidoki among the senatorial candidates.