One Killed, Five Vehicles Burnt As Jonathan Campaigns In Kano

One person was yesterday confirmed dead and five vehicles burnt in a clash involving thugs loyal to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the All Progressives Party, APC, in Kano State.

Our correspondent gathered that the clash occurred as President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaign train stormed the Polo Ground in continuation of the party’s re-election bid in February.

It was learnt that thugs brandished dangerous weapons during the clash; moments after President Jonathan started his campaign.

Police Command spokesman, Magaji Musa Majia, an ASP, confirmed the incident and loss of life, including destruction of five vehicles.

Majia added that the police were investigating the incident to ascertain the cause.

The clash is coming on the heels of the presence of presidential candidates of the two dominant parties in the state.

The APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, was in Kano on Tuesday and yesterday, he also addressed journalists on the allegation that he did not have the requisite qualification to contest for the presidency.

Meanwhile, Jonathan was welcomed to Kano by a large crowd of supporters, even as the president used the occasion to felicitate with people of the state over the emergence of Muhammad Sanusi as new emir.

Thousands of PDP supporters had thronged the venue of the campaign rally as early as 9am, with traffic gridlock on major routes.

Speaking at the rally, Jonathan urged the people to cast their votes for his party, noting that the emergence of Mallam Salihu Takai, as governorelect would pave the way to further elevate the commercial viability of the state.

He stated that the people and city of Kano are renowned for commercial activities and agriculture, adding that voting for the PDP at all levels would boost the commercial and agrarian activities of the state.