- Police in Borno State arrested Shehu Usman Aliyu and two supporters, reportedly linked to a canceled solidarity rally for Senator Ndume
- A family member expressed concern over the arrests, viewing them as political persecution amid rising tensions among Senator Ndume’s supporters
Police in Borno State have detained Shehu Usman Aliyu (Babandi), the legislative aide of Senator Ali Ndume, along with two of his supporters, Tasiu Hassan Malgwi and Ibrahim Adamu, in Biu town. They have been transported to Maiduguri, the state capital, for further investigation.
Amina Kachalla, Babandi’s wife, appealed for his release, emphasizing his role as the family’s breadwinner and the hardships they have faced since his arrest.
Kenneth Daso, the spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, confirmed the arrests were based on intelligence reports, stating, “It was based on intelligence that they were arrested and the investigation is ongoing. I will follow up the case and keep you updated.”
Although details of the case were not disclosed, supporters of Senator Ndume believe the arrests are connected to a cancelled solidarity rally planned in response to Ndume’s removal as Senate chief Whip. The rally, initially scheduled for July 28, 2024, in Biu town, was called off due to the fragile security situation in the state and potential conflicts with a proposed nationwide protest.
A press statement from Ndume’s Senior Legislative Aide (Media), Junaid Jubrin Maiva, announced the rally’s cancellation, citing concerns over possible disruptions.
A family source in Biu mentioned that the three individuals were arrested by armed policemen and taken to Maiduguri for questioning. The police have reportedly obtained a court order to detain the alleged rally organizers pending the conclusion of the investigation.
The arrests have caused tension among Senator Ndume’s supporters in southern Borno, who view the detentions as a form of political persecution.