Drama as VP’s security bars Dakingari’s aides from Jokolo’s palace

From Ahmed Idris, Birnin Kebbi

It was a mild drama and what is considered an embarrassment yesterday in Gwandu as security details of Vice President, Architect Mohammed Namadi Sambo denied media aides of Kebbi State Governor, Saidu Dakingari access to the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Illiyasu Bashar.

Also denied access to Bashar are other journalists from respective media houses.

Sambo was in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday night on homage to the Emir of Gwandu in his palace as part of efforts by the presidency and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to reconcile aggrieved members, following emergence of Gen Sarkin-Yaki Bello as governorship candidate.

Superintendent of Police, SP Ofor refused journalists and the media aides to the Kebbi State governor, the Special Adviser and Chief Press Secretary to Governor, Saidu Dakingari, Alh Ibraheem Musa Argungu and Alh Muazu Dakingari access to Emir of Gwandu’s palace, despite the intervention of the SA media and some top government officials.

“Yes, I did everything I could to let those security men and one SP Ofor to allow us entry with journalists and master of ceremony, but all to no avail. It is quite embarrassing “Argungu said.

The SP threatened to shoot any journalists including the SA media and the CPS if they move an inch.

Special Adviser on Media to the Vice President, Alh Umar Sani , when contacted on phone said he is not aware of the incident. “I am not aware of the incident, but I will find out and get back to you,” he said. His number could not be reached when our correspondent called back after about an hour.