Gombe Attack: Police Yet to Act on Goje’s Petition

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The police high command is yet to commence investigation into the petition submitted by Senator Danjuma Goje, 11 days after its submission.

Goje was recently attacked by thugs in Gombe on his way to attend a wedding. Police sources said the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Usman Baba, had directed the AIG Zone 3 to take over the matter immediately the petition was received.

It was gathered that the matter is yet to be attended to.
This may not be unconnected with the power play between the political gladiators involved.
The lawmaker’s convoy was attacked on Friday, November 5, by suspected political thugs while he was going to the state capital to attend a wedding.

Goje, the senator representing Gombe Central, subsequently petitioned the IG and Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Musiliu Smith.

In the petition, dated November 8 and signed by his lawyer, Mr. V.C Nwadike, the lawmaker alleged that the attack was masterminded by the security aides of the state chief executive.

He also petitioned the Minister of Police Affairs, Muhammad Dingyadi, the Commissioner of Police in Gombe State and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami.

“Our boss here in Abuja had directed Zone 3 to take the case but I don’t think there is anything on ground to show the case is being handled,” a source said.

“You should know that there are procedures to follow when treating petitions.

“Besides, it appears the governor of the state is involved, so, don’t forget he has immunity but that doesn’t stop the police investigation. I know the matter would be handled in a professional manner,” the source said.

Efforts to elicit the response of Force Public Relations Officer, Mr. Frank Mba, a Commissioner of Police, proved abortive.