In a shocking turn of events during Saturday’s bye-election at Rigachikun in Igabi Local Government of Kaduna State, the death of Mansur Shafiu, a 40-year-old man, has sent shockwaves through the community, leading to confusion and unrest on Sunday.
Eyewitnesses claim that suspected political thugs were responsible for Mansur Shafiu’s death, allegedly attempting to prevent ballot box snatching. According to an eyewitness, one of the thugs brought out a knife and fatally stabbed Mansur in an attempt to thwart their interference.
Confirming the incident, ASP Mansir Hassan, the spokesman for the Kaduna State Police Command, disclosed that the suspected political thugs had snatched election materials at the Tsohon Garin Rigachikun polling unit. In the ensuing chaos, they shot Mansur in the leg, leading to his tragic demise after being rushed to the hospital.
The incident triggered protests, with outraged youths from Rigachikun blocking the Zaria-Rigachikun highway, causing a significant traffic gridlock. The situation was only brought under control after military intervention restored normalcy.
Expressing grief over the unfortunate incident, Hussaini Jallo, the winner of the Igabi Federal Constituency bye-election and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, vowed to ensure that the perpetrators faced justice. In a statement, Jallo paid a heartfelt tribute to Mansur Shafiu, highlighting his dedication to civic responsibility.
Jallo stated, “We will engage the Nigerian police force to launch an immediate full-scale investigation with a view to fishing out the perpetrator of this killing and the deliberate attacks meted out to voters during our rerun election.” He dedicated his electoral victory to Mansur, emphasizing the need for justice.
Mansur Shafiu was laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites around 10 am on Sunday in Rigachikun. The incident underscores the challenges and risks associated with electoral processes in certain regions, demanding urgent attention and comprehensive investigations to ensure justice for the victims.
