A police officer has been arrested in connection with the shooting of Alhaji Danlami Alhassan, the former Chairman of Ningi Local Government Council, in Bauchi State. The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening at approximately 9:30 p.m. in the Wunti Market area, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.
SP Thomas Goni, the Public Relations Officer for the Zone 12 Police Command, confirmed the arrest on Monday. He assured the public that the matter would be thoroughly and impartially investigated.
“The officer involved has been identified and is currently in custody,” Goni stated. “He will face disciplinary action in line with the Nigeria Police Force guidelines. We are aware of the concerns and tension this incident has caused within the community and want to assure everyone that we are handling this matter with the seriousness it deserves.”
Goni also revealed that the Force would review its training programs to ensure officers are better equipped to handle situations with professionalism and respect. “This incident highlights the need for continuous evaluation of our protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” he added.
Recounting the traumatic event to journalists, Alhassan explained that he was on his way to buy suya (roasted meat) when the incident unfolded. He stated that he initially refused to stop because he was unsure of the officer’s identity and intentions.
“I stopped when I reached a populated area, and the officer crossed my car. As I opened the door to come out, I was suddenly shot. I felt something hit me on the head, and blood started gushing out,” Alhassan said.
The officer’s identity was discovered after a bag containing his police ID card, teargas canisters, and other equipment fell from his motorcycle.
Alhassan was rushed to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital in Bauchi, where he received treatment and was later discharged.
This incident has reignited discussions about police accountability and the urgent need for reforms within the Force. The Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has directed an expedited investigation into the case to ensure justice is served.
The community continues to watch closely, demanding transparency and accountability in the investigation and subsequent actions taken against the officer involved.