Rita Odafe
The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised concerns about an alleged incident where protesters reportedly tried to attack the home of Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, in Gusau, Zamfara State.
In a statement released on Thursday by Yusuf Idris, the Publicity Secretary of the APC in Zamfara, the party expressed its dismay over the purported nationwide peaceful protests in the state.
Idris claimed that numerous thugs were mobilized to target the individuals and assets of APC members.
He appealed to security forces to safeguard their lives and property.
“We noticed that many thugs were strategically sent to inflict harm and damage the belongings of APC members.
“It is regrettable that during the initial day of the protests, there was an attempt to attack the private residence of former Governor Bello Matawalle,” he alleged.
Idris referenced a previous incident in 2023 where Matawalle’s residence was broken into by thugs and stressed the importance of preventing a recurrence.
“Fortunately, the prompt action taken by security personnel to prevent the protesters from vandalizing the minister’s residence averted a crisis.
“We appreciate the proactive stance of the security forces in the state.
“These political thugs, likely acting on orders from their leaders, could have set fire to the minister’s home and possessions,” he remarked.
Idris further claimed that the thugs also targeted the residence of Senator Sahabi Yau in Kaura Namoda, causing extensive destruction and damaging his Toyota Hilux van under the guise of peaceful demonstrations.
“We had foreseen the potential hijack of the protests by hoodlums and other troublemakers in the state, and unfortunately, it materialized.
“We urge the security agencies in the state to ensure the safety and security of our members and all law-abiding citizens.
“We urge the youth not to allow themselves to be manipulated by corrupt politicians, particularly as the nationwide protest is meant to be peaceful and address national concerns.
“The protest, a constitutional right of Nigerians, must be peaceful and pose no threat to life or property,” added the APC spokesperson.
