A Chief Magistrate’s Court in Gombe has ordered the remand of two supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over their alleged involvement in the disruption at Gombe International Airport during the arrival of the party’s governorship candidate, Dr. Bala Bello Tinka.
The two defendants, Muhammad-Sunusi Abdullahi, popularly known as Ataka, and Ahmed-Daudu Dinawa, also known as Jadda, appeared before Chief Magistrate Aliyu Abubakar on Tuesday, where they pleaded not guilty to multiple criminal charges.
Defendants Face Seven Criminal Charges
According to the prosecution, the defendants are facing a seven-count charge that includes:
| Charge | Allegation |
|---|---|
| Criminal trespass | Unlawfully entering a restricted area |
| Disobedience to lawful order | Ignoring directives from security officials |
| Obstruction of public officials | Preventing officials from carrying out their duties |
| Intentional insult | Allegedly insulting airport personnel |
| Inciting public disturbance | Allegedly provoking unrest |
| Causing damage | Allegedly damaging airport property |
| Unlawful access | Allegedly forcing entry into a restricted section |
Police Allege Forced Entry Into Restricted Airport Area
Police prosecutor Umehi Thomas told the court that the incident occurred around 12:00 p.m. on July 15, 2026, during the arrival of ADC governorship candidate Dr. Bala Bello Tinka at Gombe International Airport.
According to the prosecution, the defendants, alongside several others who are still at large, allegedly forced their way into the airport and damaged the security lock at the Executive Gate leading to the VIP section.
Thomas alleged that the group gained unauthorized access to the restricted area despite attempts by airport authorities and security personnel to stop them.
He further claimed that the suspects became violent during the confrontation and verbally insulted airport officials. He added that the full extent of the damage caused to airport property would be determined as investigations continue.
Prosecution Requests Continued Detention
Following the defendants’ not guilty plea, the prosecution urged the court to keep them in custody while police conclude their investigation.
Thomas argued that continued detention was necessary because the investigation remains ongoing and additional suspects connected to the incident are yet to be arrested.
Defence Seeks Bail, Cites Constitutional Rights
Counsel to the defendants, Ayuba Rabiu, opposed the request for remand and asked the court to grant his clients bail.
Rabiu argued that the court has the legal authority to grant bail under Section 177 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Gombe State, 2020, as well as Sections 34, 35, and 36 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The defence also informed the court that the defendants had already spent five days in police custody since July 16, 2026, urging the magistrate to consider their constitutional rights while determining the bail application.
Court Adjourns Hearing, Sets Date for Bail Decision
After listening to submissions from both the prosecution and the defence, Chief Magistrate Aliyu Abubakar ordered that the two defendants remain in custody pending further proceedings.
The court adjourned the substantive hearing of the case to August 5, 2026, while scheduling July 23, 2026, for its ruling on the defendants’ bail application.
The case is expected to continue after the court decides whether the accused persons will remain in custody or be released on bail as investigations proceed.
