Tension in Gombe as youths raze ADC factional chairman’s residence after Supreme Court ruling

By Johnson Arua

Tension flared in Gombe State following reports that some youths set ablaze the residence of a factional National Chairman of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nafi’u Bala, in his neighborhood.

The incident, which occurred under unclear circumstances, led to the destruction of property, though no casualties were recorded.

Residents in the area were said to have been gripped by panic as the fire raged before it was eventually contained.

Eyewitness accounts indicated that the attackers, believed to be youths, stormed the residence and set it on fire, causing significant damage to the building and valuables within.

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity described the scene as chaotic. “We suddenly saw flames and people shouting. It was a frightening experience, but thankfully no one was hurt,” the source said.

Security operatives were reportedly alerted to the situation but were unable to apprehend any of the perpetrators, who fled the scene before their arrival.

Emergency responders and local volunteers, however, worked swiftly to bring the fire under control, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, and it remains unclear what may have triggered the attack.

The development comes shortly after a ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which reportedly delivered judgment in favour of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ADC led by former Senate President David Mark.

Political observers suggest the timing of the attack has raised concerns about possible tensions within the party, though no direct link has been established.

Residents have called on security agencies to intensify patrols and ensure those responsible are brought to justice, warning that such incidents could heighten insecurity if left unchecked.