A gaggle often called Arewa Transformational Leaders Forum, has petitioned the British High Commission in Abuja, over alleged political violence in Sokoto state forward of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential marketing campaign flag-off scheduled for Wednesday.
In a petition dated November 3, 2026 and signed by Muhammed Umar, the discussion board known as for diplomatic intervention and accused Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration and the All Progressives Congress (APC) chief within the state, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko of allegedly suppressing opposition participation.
The discussion board alleged that on Monday, November 2, 2026 – barely 48 hours to the presidential marketing campaign flag-off – the Sokoto State Government sealed the ADC marketing campaign workplace designated because the venue for the occasion.
The Arewa Transformational Leaders Forum described the motion as the usage of governmental authority for partisan suppression.
“An elected government cannot legitimately close the political space through which others seek a democratic mandate,” it mentioned.
The group additional alleged that on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, ladies taking part in a peaceable ADC solidarity procession have been attacked and sustained severe accidents.
The discussion board recognized one Aliyu ‘KC’ and his associates, described as a well known political thug of the APC as accountable, and demanded neutral investigation, arrest and prosecution.
“On October 30, 2026, the convoy of the ADC governorship candidate, His Excellency Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, was allegedly attacked by Sokoto State Security Outfits”.
The discussion board raised alarm over what it known as mysterious and deeply troubling circumstances surrounding the discharge of Aliyu KC and his associates from jail, and their subsequent alleged involvement in assaults.
It demanded investigation into the date and authorized foundation of their launch, the authority that accredited it, any circumstances connected, and involvement of public officers or political intermediaries, together with courtroom orders, launch warrants or devices of government clemency.
“The sequence of release followed by political violence raises serious questions about political protection and the integrity of the release process,” the petition mentioned.
The group additionally drew consideration to unverified stories that APC stakeholders have mobilised political thugs to disrupt ADC actions and that bikes have been procured for his or her operations, however mentioned it distinguishes these warnings from established findings and desires speedy investigation and preventive safety.
The discussion board linked the scenario to insecurity, noting that the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office at present advises towards all journey to Sokoto State, arguing that politically protected violence weakens lawful establishments and emboldens coercive teams.
It requested the British High Commission and different diplomatic missions to: “have interaction urgently with Sokoto State Government and federal authorities to safe peaceable political participation earlier than, throughout and after November 4, with neutral safety safety for individuals, journalists, residents and property.
“Blacklist recognized perpetrators and sponsors on the idea of credible proof, via visa refusals or revocations, journey restrictions and different relevant sanctions below UK legal guidelines;
“Press for unbiased investigations into assaults on ladies and the governorship candidate, circumstances of Aliyu KC’s launch, and recruitment, financing, equipping or safety of perpetrators, together with motorcycle-procurement stories;
“Seek speedy clarification of the workplace sealing, together with its authorized foundation and urge reopening until lawful justification is established;
“Monitor developments and seek accountability through engagement with affected persons, legal practitioners and civil society, with safeguards against witness retaliation.”
It added that:”Sokoto belongs to its individuals. No governor, former governor, or ruling get together owns its political house.”
As at press time, the Sokoto State Government, Senator Wamakko and the APC have been but to reply to the allegations. Efforts to get their response have been ongoing.
The group mentioned it requested an pressing alternative to temporary political and human-rights officers of the High Commission and urged all events to reject retaliation and help peaceable participation.
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