Kaduna Gov’t Probes Viral Video Of Assault On Kano Commentator Dan Balki Commander

The Kaduna State Government has initiated a thorough investigation into viral videos showing the brutalisation of a Kano-based politician and public affairs commentator, Abdulmajid Dan Balki Commander, over alleged criticism of Governor Uba Sani.

The decision was communicated in a press release signed by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Sani, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, on Thursday.

In the press release dated July 18, 2024, Shehu conveyed the State government’s shock and disapproval of the incident. “The attention of the Kaduna State Government has been drawn to a video that has gone viral showing one Dan Balki Commander, Abdulmajid Ɗan Bilki kwamanda being whipped by unidentified persons. In the video, accusing fingers were pointed at the Kaduna State Government.”

He emphasised the government’s strong disassociation from the act, stating, “The Kaduna State Government wishes to strongly disassociate itself from the heinous act. It is not in our character. Such barbaric acts have no place in a decent society.”

The CPS reiterated the Uba Sani administration’s commitment to justice and human dignity, noting, “We stand for the rule of law and due process. Our administration is anchored on justice, equity, fairness, inclusivity, and respect for the dignity of the human person.”

Highlighting the administration’s efforts since May 2023, Shehu said, “Since assuming office in May 2023, the Kaduna State Government under the able leadership of Senator Uba Sani has been working assiduously to rebuild trust and give all citizens of the State a sense of belonging. We accommodate all shades of opinion and have created a conducive atmosphere for all political views to thrive.”

Shehu also underscored Governor Sani’s longstanding commitment to civil rights, “The Governor of Kaduna State is a long-standing fighter for fundamental rights and freedoms. He has never wavered in his commitment to the promotion and protection of civil rights, rule of law, and due process. He will not, under any circumstances, detail anyone to brutalize a person for holding a contrary opinion.”

On the governor’s directive for a comprehensive investigation, the spokesperson added: “His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani has therefore ordered a full investigation into the alleged incident. He is determined to get to the root of the incident and will ensure that the full wrath of the law is brought to bear on anyone found culpable.”

LEADERSHIP reports that a series of videos circulating on social media depict the brutalization of Dan Balki Commander, sparking widespread outrage and calls for justice.

In one of the videos, Dan Balki Commander is seen being interrogated and whipped by unidentified individuals, for allegedly insulting Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State. The footage shows him being coerced to explain his derogatory remarks about the governor.

Another video emerged shortly after, where Dan Balki Commander displays the injuries he sustained from the whipping. In the video, he directly accused policemen of being behind the assault on his person.