Suspected political thugs reportedly attacked journalists returning from an All Progressives Congress rally in Kano State on Saturday, damaging a vehicle belonging to Radio Nigeria’s Pyramid FM.
The incident occurred shortly after an APC political gathering held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, with journalists said to have come under attack as they departed the venue after covering the event.
The attackers allegedly wielded machetes and knives, using the weapons to smash the windows of the Radio Nigeria vehicle and damage parts of the bus.
Five journalists were reportedly caught up in the attack.
Those affected were identified as Shafiu Abdullahi Panshekara, Abdulmajid Habib Isa Tukuntawa, Yakubu Abubakar Gwagwarwa and Ibrahim Hussaini, all of Radio Nigeria, Pyramid FM, Kano, as well as Abdulbaki Ali Ahmed Sharifai of Guarantee Radio.
Other occupants of the vehicle reportedly included the orderly attached to the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Mariya Mahmud Bunkure; personnel of the Department of State Services; and a political adviser to former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
According to reports, the assailants continued attacking the vehicle despite the presence of journalists and security personnel inside.
The attack reportedly created panic among those in the vehicle as they made their way back from the political gathering.
The motive for the attack was not immediately clear as of the time of filing this report, while details of any arrests or official response were also not available.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of journalists covering political activities, particularly during heated campaigns and rallies.