Police, ADC supporters clash in Kaduna

But the Kaduna state Police command said it deployed tear gas to disperse a crowd of ADC supporters after they allegedly blocked a major road in the metropolis, causing severe traffic congestion and a breakdown of public order.

The command said the incident was not an attempt to stop a political gathering or restrict citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the Command said it received a distress call from security personnel attached to Murtala Square that a group of unknown persons was attempting to forcefully gain entry into the premises.

In a statement signed by Mr Ashiru, the ADC governorship candidate, the party described the gathering as a peaceful demonstration by “thousands” of its supporters.

However the ADC said the protesters had gathered “not with weapons, not with stones, not with incitement” but to express support for the ADC and demand what it called a better Kaduna.

The ADC alleged that the APC-led government deployed security operatives and “hired thugs” to disrupt the walk.