Civil society organisations in Gombe State have staged a strong protest and are calling for the immediate removal of a senior aide to Governor Inuwa Yahaya. This follows the circulation of a disturbing video showing the aide physically attacking an elected councillor.
Viral Video Captures Brutal Assault on Councillor
The controversy centres on Adamu Danko, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs to the Governor and is also a driver to the Chief of Staff, Abubakar Inuwa Kari. A video that went viral on social media shows Danko repeatedly slapping, punching, and headbutting Councillor Abdulrahman Abubakar Sheriff. The incident occurred on December 15.
In the footage, the councillor is seen pleading for mercy while Danko continues the violent assault. The attack was reportedly triggered by allegations that the councillor made disparaging comments about the Chief of Staff.
CSOs, Amnesty International Condemn "Culture of Impunity"
Leading human rights watchdog, Amnesty International, alongside the Gombe State Network of Civil Society Organisations (GONET), has strongly condemned the act. In a statement, Amnesty described the assault as outrageous and indicative of a wider pattern of impunity and political repression by state officials.
"Using violence to settle political scores is unacceptable in a free society," the CSOs declared. They accused the Gombe State government of fostering a "culture of impunity" that is suffocating civic space and endangering lives.
GONET, through its Chairman Ibrahim Yusuf, labelled the attack "barbaric, unconscionable, and a grave violation of human rights and dignity." The groups are united in their demand for Danko's dismissal and a thorough, impartial investigation into the event.
Mounting Pressure for Justice and Accountability
The organisations have squarely placed responsibility on the office of the Chief of Staff, alleging the victim "was subjected to this horrific treatment at the behest" of Abubakar Inuwa Kari. They argue that the incident is a troubling sign of shrinking political tolerance in the state.
The core demands from the coalition are clear:
- The immediate disengagement of Adamu Danko from his position.
- A prompt and unbiased investigation into the assault.
- Ensuring justice and protection for the victim, Councillor Abdulrahman Abubakar Sheriff.
All eyes are now on Governor Inuwa Yahaya's administration to see how it responds to these serious allegations and the public outcry for accountability.
