Dan Bilki Commander, a controversial All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Kano, has been brutally assaulted.
In a viral video, the politician is seen handcuffed and caned by unidentified individuals.
After asking him to identify himself, they interrogated him on his criticism of Governor Uba Sani, questioning why he spoke against the governor despite not being a Kaduna State indigene.
Known for his outspoken nature, Commander often critiques politicians on radio programs in Kano.
Amid the lashing, Commander could be heard saying, “I have a heart problem.”
According to Daily Trust, in another clip, Commander accused the governor of orchestrating the attack.
“They were sent by Governor Uba Sani to beat me. I can recognize some of them and the place where they got the handcuffs from. Look at the bumps and scalds on my hands and back. Some police officers did it. Uba Sani directed them to do it. They said they would kill me and throw me into the water. They videoed me while beating and abusing me. I was humiliated to the core,” he stated.
In response, the Kaduna State Government issued a statement calling for an investigation into the video.
Signed by Muhammad Lawal Shehu, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the statement reads, “The attention of the Kaduna State Government has been drawn to a video that has gone viral showing one Dan Bilki Commander being whipped by unidentified persons.
“In the video, accusing fingers were pointed at the Kaduna State Government. 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.
“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. 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. 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.
“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.”