A physically challenged protester, Hamza Waziri, has accused security operatives attached to the Bauchi State Government House of assaulting him during an #EndBadGovernance protest.
The incident, which has sparked outrage, was captured in a video that has been widely circulated online, showing security personnel wrestling with Waziri, who relies on a wheelchair.
Waziri, who leads the Initiative for the Liberalisation of Physically Challenged People, spoke to journalists about the incident. He explained that he and other individuals with disabilities were exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest near the Government House when they were attacked by security agents.
“I decided to organise this protest to show my displeasure with the current economic situation of the country. In the process, I was doing a live video when one of the policemen approached me, claiming I had filmed him. They attempted to grab the phone from me, and in the struggle, they started brutalizing me. They gave me a couple of punches, as you can see from the video,” Waziri recounted.
Waziri emphasized the peaceful nature of their demonstration, stating, “There were not more than ten of us, but I was the only one standing 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 is what led to the altercation with the security personnel.”
In response to the incident, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has ordered a thorough investigation. The governor, through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, condemned the actions of the security personnel and assured the public that those found to have acted improperly will be held accountable.
“Governor Bala Mohammed has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident involving a person with a disability and security personnel at the government house,” the statement read. “The incident, which occurred on August 1, 2024, during the #EndBadGovernance protest, was captured in a viral video and has sparked widespread concern.
“Governor Bala Mohammed has made it clear that the welfare and rights of all citizens, especially vulnerable groups, remain his top priority. He directed a thorough investigation to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident and ensure that justice is served.”
The government has appealed to residents of the state and Nigerians in general to remain calm and abide by all rules and regulations during and after demonstrations. The public awaits the outcome of the investigation and hopes for accountability and justice for Waziri and other protesters involved.
