Amnesty speaks out on attack against Pantami's campaign team in Gombe

Human rights group Amnesty International has condemned the violent attack on the campaign team of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Gombe State, Isa Pantami. They called on security agencies to investigate the incident quickly and bring those responsible to justice.

In a statement on Thursday, Amnesty described the attack, which happened on Wednesday along Jekadafari Road in Gombe, as a deliberate attempt to use violence to stop Mr Pantami from entering the state capital ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Amnesty International said early reports suggest the attackers are likely linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The group pointed out that videos from the scene show many armed thugs blocking the road with tyres and setting them on fire.

The attackers also broke the windows of several vehicles in the convoy, causing a major traffic jam along the highway. "This is perhaps one of the deadliest acts of political violence since the beginning of the campaign for the 2027 elections," the statement said.

The organization noted with concern that no arrests seem to have been made after the attack. They warned that ongoing hostility against opposition figures could threaten peaceful political activities in the state.

"Security agencies must investigate this incident and ensure that those suspected of responsibility are brought to justice through a fair trial," Amnesty International said.

They added, "Consistent violent attacks on the opposition will make it difficult or impossible for them to hold peaceful political activities." The group stressed that violence has no place in a democracy. They urged political parties to clearly instruct their supporters to avoid any form of intimidation or violence as campaign activities ramp up.