MATAWALLE UNDER FIRE AS POLICE SHOOT PDP SUPPORTERS IN ZAMFARA

A cross-section of Nigerians are condemning Governor Bello Matawalle over the use of deadly force by the police in Zamfara State.

In the shooting caught on camera, police operatives fired at supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The incident reportedly occurred at the party’s campaign office in Gusau, the capital, on Thursday, the End SARS second anniversary.

A banner on the building shows the images of PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and Zamfara governorship flagbearer, Dauda Lawal.

In a trending video, the police team targeted a number of youths standing meters away and discharged shots.

A young man was later grabbed and dragged to a pick-up truck. The video ends as officers try to put him in the vehicle; one knelt to shoot again.

In reaction, some citizens accused Matawalle of giving the order. Bullets reportedly hit at least two people and their condition is unknown.

On Twitter, @bekemeluo wrote: This is how they recruited Boko Haram terrorists who join Nigerian armed forces. Why is no one speaking against what’s happening in Zamfara?

@obutedonreal: This happened hours ago in Zamfara state. Gov Matawalle ordered police officers to shut PDP members in Atiku campaign office in Gusau.

@von_Bismack: What Gov. Matawalle is doing to PDP in Zamfara is nothing short of tyrannical. This is clearly unacceptable and the fact that police are in on this tyranny is down casting.

On Tuesday, the state government reiterated the ban on campaigns for the 2023 elections.

Abdullahi Shinkafi, Chairman, Committee on Prosecution of Banditry and Related Offences, spoke to newsmen.

Shinkafi said 80 people, including women, were in the custody of security agencies for aiding bandits.

The official explained that insecurity was why the Matawalle administration stopped political gatherings.

“Those (terrorists) dislodged are now regrouping to attack communities as a form of revenge.

“The Zamfara government is aware of their movement and is tracking them.

“These are some of the reasons the government suspended political rallies and to deal with the situation,” he added.

Last week, Matawalle enforced Executive Order No.10 suspending 2023 activities, and locking down three local government areas – Anka, Bukuyum and Gummi.

Commissioner of Information, Ibrahim Dosara said the governor took the decision “following the loss of lives of our fellow brothers and sisters”.

“Political meetings and gatherings at individual residences are also banned with immediate effect, henceforth.”