Tragedy struck the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State as Raymond Timothy, the party’s councillorship candidate for Pari Ward in Kauru Local Government Area, and his brother, James Timothy, were killed by gunmen on Sunday evening.
The attack, which has been described as a potential politically-motivated assassination, took place while the victims were returning from a political campaign in Kizachi Village, Pari Ward.
Raymond Timothy, a father of three with a fourth child on the way, was riding home on a motorcycle with his brother when they were ambushed near some guinea corn farms, according to Barnabas Chawai, a prominent PDP member in the area.
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The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly as it comes just weeks before the October 19 local government elections in Kaduna State.
Chawai urged security agencies to take immediate action and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. “Drastic measures must be implemented to prevent further incidents as the local government election approaches,” he stated, emphasizing the need for heightened security as political tensions escalate.
John Wanneh, Secretary to the Village Head of Kizachi, recounted his last moments with the victims. “We were together till around 6 p.m. before parting ways so that Raymond could return home to Bakin-Kogi,” Wanneh explained. “It was less than 10 to 15 minutes after we parted that we heard gunshots.”
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Wanneh expressed uncertainty about the motive behind the killings, stating, “We cannot say who committed this crime or if it is politically related.” He called on the government to construct a bridge and improve the road network for better accessibility, especially during emergencies, as the poor condition of roads and an impassable river have hindered security operatives from accessing the village.
The killings have left residents and party members in shock and mourning, with many calling for immediate government intervention to secure the area and protect political candidates ahead of the elections.