By: Sunday Ameh
Tension has gripped Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State after a man was reportedly shot dead when police officers opened fire shortly after the announcement of the November 1 council election results.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening after the incumbent chairman, Jibril Abdullahi Muregi, was declared winner of the poll.
Residents said officers began shooting into the air while dispersing a crowd gathered at the council secretariat, forcing voters and party supporters to flee. One person was confirmed dead in the process.
The development has intensified unrest in the community, with locals accusing state authorities of imposing Muregi as chairman despite widespread opposition.
Muregi’s candidacy had sparked controversy before the election, as several stakeholders challenged his alleged selection by Governor Umar Bago as a consensus candidate. Although the matter went to court, it did not stop him from appearing on the ballot under the ruling party.
A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said there is now heavy security presence around the council headquarters and other strategic locations in Mokwa.
Violence was also reported in other parts of the state. At least two more deaths were recorded in Kontagora and Agaie on Saturday following post-election clashes linked to the same local government elections.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the shootings as of press time.
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