Hamza Waziri, a protester with physical disabilities, has accused security personnel at the Bauchi State Government House of assaulting him during the End Bad Governance protest in the state.
A video circulating online shows security forces grappling with Waziri, who uses a wheelchair.
In an interview with journalists, Waziri, the leader of the Initiative for the Liberalisation of Physically Challenged People, explained that he and other people with disabilities were peacefully protesting near the Government House when they were attacked by security agents.
“I organized this protest to express my dissatisfaction with the country’s current economic conditions,” Waziri said. “While I was livestreaming the protest, a policeman approached me, claiming I had filmed him. They tried to seize my phone, leading to a struggle where they physically assaulted me. They hit me several times, as shown in the video.”
Waziri continued, “There were fewer than ten of us. I was the only one directly in front of the Government House, holding placards that read ‘Employment should be for all,’ ‘Everybody should be allowed to be employed,’ and ‘Inclusive Society.’ This was the essence of our demonstration.”
In response, Governor Bala Mohammed has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident and condemned the actions of the security personnel. Mukhtar Gidado, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, assured the public that those responsible would be held accountable if found to have acted inappropriately.
“Governor Bala Mohammed has mandated a detailed inquiry into the August 1, 2024, incident involving a disabled individual and security forces at the Government House,” the statement said. “The event, captured in a viral video, has raised significant concern.”
The Governor emphasized his commitment to protecting the welfare and rights of all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups. He called for a careful examination of the incident to ensure justice is served.
The government also urged state residents and Nigerians to stay calm and adhere to regulations during and after the protests.