Political thuggery: NUJ.expresses concern over attacks, killings, looting

Danjuma James, Sokoto

The Chairman of the council, Alhaji Isa Shuni made the observation while receiving Management and staffers of Golden Star Initiative and YIAGA Africa, a Non-Governmental Organizations who paid the council an advocacy visit.

The chairman noted with dismay how political thugs locally known as area boys were wrecking havoc on the innocent residents of the state unhindered.

He cited the reported  killings, wanton looting and destruction of properties in some parts of the state allegedly perpetrated by political thugs belonging to major political parties in the state.

This, he said, is contrary to  earlier  assurances by the security agencies, the political parties and their candidates that the state will witness peaceful campaigns.

Shuni then canvassed urgent renewed commitment to peace among political candidates and their parties through the signing of a peace accord which should be mediated by the state police commissioner, Director, DSS, Civil Societies, NGOs and NUJ among other stakeholders.

He expressed fear that if the situation remains unchecked, there was the likelihood that the state may  witness the most violent election ever in the history of the country.

He also called on security agencies to live up to their responsibility by arresting the perpetrators.