Court Remands ADC Supporters Over Airport Invasion

A Chief Magistrate Court No. 2 in Gombe ordered the remand of two defendants, Muhammad-Sunusi Abdullahi (Ataka) and Ahmed-Daudu Dinawa (Jadda), in police custody due to their alleged involvement in the invasion of Gombe International Airport on July 15, 2026. The court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Aliyu Abubakar, heard that the defendants, along with others at large, forcefully entered the airport during the arrival of African Democratic Congress governorship candidate Bala Tinka.

They reportedly damaged the security lock at the Executive Gate of the VIP section and gained unauthorized access to restricted areas, turning violent against security personnel. The police prosecutor, Umehi Thomas, stated that the defendants face a seven-count charge including criminal trespass and obstruction.

Following their not guilty plea, the prosecutor requested their remand pending investigation. Defense counsel Ayuba Rabiu opposed the remand and sought bail, noting the defendants had been in custody for five days.

The court adjourned the case until August 5, 2026, and set a ruling date for the bail application on July 23, 2026.