Suspected thugs on Saturday attacked journalists covering an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally in Kano State, smashing the windows and damaging a Radio Nigeria, Pyramid FM vehicle conveying members of the media.
The incident occurred shortly after the conclusion of a rally held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, where the leadership of a coalition of groups supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was inaugurated.
The suspected attackers reportedly targeted journalists who had gone to the venue to cover the political gathering, with the Radio Nigeria, Pyramid FM vehicle coming under attack.
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Eyewitnesses said the attackers used machetes and knives to repeatedly strike the vehicle, smashing its windows and damaging various parts of the bus.
Five journalists were reportedly affected in the incident.
They included Shafiu Abdullahi Panshekara, Abdulmajid Habib Isa Tukuntawa, Yakubu Abubakar Gwagwarwa and Ibrahim Hussaini, all of Radio Nigeria, Pyramid FM Kano.
Also attacked was Abdulbaki Ali Ahmed Sharifai of Guarantee Radio.
Other persons who were reportedly inside the Radio Nigeria vehicle when the attack occurred included the orderly of the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmud Bunkure; personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS); and the Political Adviser to former Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
One of the journalists who spoke about the incident said the presence of security personnel inside the vehicle did not deter the suspected attackers.
According to him, the attackers continued to assault the vehicle despite the presence of security personnel and journalists inside.
He said the incident created fear and confusion among the occupants, who were returning from the political gathering.
The attack has raised concerns over the safety of journalists covering political activities in Kano, particularly during large political gatherings where media professionals are expected to move freely and report events without intimidation or violence.
The presence of security personnel in the vehicle also raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the attack and the need for authorities to investigate how the attackers were able to carry out the assault.
The incident comes amid increased political activities in Kano and across Nigeria, as political groups intensify mobilisation and strengthen their structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The motive behind the attack was not immediately established, while it was also unclear as of the time of filing this report whether any arrests had been made in connection with the incident.
Media organisations and stakeholders are expected to call for a thorough investigation into the incident and appropriate action against anyone found responsible.
The safety of journalists and other media workers covering political events remains a major concern, with stakeholders expected to ensure that journalists can perform their constitutional and professional responsibilities without fear of violence or intimidation.