Four Killed as NNPP, APC Supporters Clash in Kano

No fewer than four persons, have reportedly lost their lives on Thursday after a clash erupted between supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano metropolis.

According to an eyewitness, who spoke to our correspondent the clash occurred along the Zaria Expressway when supporters of the NNPP presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, gathered to welcome him on his way to a rally in the metropolis.

However, the police spokesperson for Kano state command, Abdullahi Kiyawa, in a statement said 85 suspect were arrested by the police after the clash.

The statement reads: “Recalled that on 22/02/2023 reports were received that, three Political Parties namely; the All Progressive Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) planned to hold political rallies/processions on Thursday, 23/02/2023 within Kano metropolis.

“On receipt of the reports, and the likelihood of clashes and attacks on innocent citizens, the Commissioner of Police for the 2023 General Election, Kano State Command, Muhammad Yakubu immediately summoned the representatives of the three political parties to an emergency meeting to find a solution to the impasse.

“Unfortunately, there was no headway with their planned rallies/processions. The Commissioner of Police passionately appealed to the consciousness of the representatives that this is not in the best interest of the fragile security of the state. Given this, the three political parties were advised to postpone the planned rallies/procession.

“Today, 23/02/2023, clearance operations conducted by Joint Teams of security agencies after reported clashes led to the arrest of Eighty-Five (85) suspects that claimed to be of different Political Parties and the recovery of dangerous weapons. An investigation is in progress.

“The Commissioner of Police appreciates the good people of the State for their understanding, encouragement and support. We seek your continuous cooperation to ensure a peaceful 2023 General Election.”