Bye-election: Kaduna PDP raises alarm over alleged abduction of Reps candidate, 25 others

The Kaduna State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused security agencies of acting under the influence of Governor Uba Sani, following the reported arrest and detention of its members ahead of Saturday’s bye-elections.

In a statement issued by the party’s state chairman, Edward Percy Masha, the PDP condemned what it described as “egregious actions” by Nigerian security forces, claiming a joint task force known as Operation Fushin Kada — operating under the Kaduna State Government — raided City Den Hotel in Malali early Saturday morning.

According to Masha, security operatives broke into a hotel room in an attempt to arrest the PDP Campaign Council Chairman, Hussein Ahmed-Kero. While he was not found at the scene, the party alleged that Princess Esther Ashivelli Dawaki, the PDP candidate for Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, along with 25 others, were “abducted.”

“The PDP condemns this brazen act of harassment, intimidation, and insanity by the APC,” the statement read, calling for the “immediate and unconditional release” of all those detained.

Masha further appealed to the Inspector General of Police, the heads of the DSS and armed forces, and President Bola Tinubu to intervene and stop what he described as “abuse of power” intended to influence the election outcome. He urged civil society organizations and pro-democracy groups to speak out against the alleged repression.

“Let it be clear: the PDP will not be silenced or intimidated,” the statement added.
“The APC’s actions are the last kicks of a dying horse. We remain committed to protecting democratic values and the rights of our supporters.”

Kaduna Govt, Security Sources Deny Allegations, Cite Vote-Buying Concerns

Responding to the PDP’s claims, Kaduna State Commissioner for Information, Ahmad Maiyaki, denied any wrongdoing by the state government, stating that security operations were targeting credible intelligence of vote-buying activities — including from the PDP.

Meanwhile, a security source confirmed the arrest of a PDP agent, Shehu Fatange, who was allegedly caught with approximately N30 million in cash, suspected to be earmarked for vote-buying ahead of the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency election.

Fatange was reportedly arrested Friday evening at a hotel in Kaduna metropolis, where he was believed to be coordinating fund distribution intended to influence voters. The Kaduna Police Command, through its spokesman DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest, noting that investigations are ongoing.

“The suspect is currently in custody and under investigation. Security agencies are working together to ensure free, fair, and credible elections,” Hassan said.

Climate of Tension as Accusations Fly Ahead of Polls

Both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties — including the PDP, African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Social Democratic Party (SDP) — have traded accusations in recent days, alleging vote-buying, intimidation, and attempts to compromise election officials.

Security operatives have urged calm and reassured the public of their commitment to a peaceful and credible electoral process.