Gombe – 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 a security breach at Gombe International Airport during the arrival of the party’s governorship candidate, Dr Bala Bello Tinka.
The defendants, Muhammad-Sunusi Abdullahi, popularly known as Ataka, and Ahmed-Daudu Dinawa, also known as Jadda, were arraigned before Chief Magistrate Aliyu Abubakar on Tuesday.
They pleaded not guilty to a seven-count charge bordering on criminal trespass, disobedience to a lawful order, obstruction of public officials, intentional insult, incitement of disturbance, and malicious damage.
According to the police prosecution, the incident occurred on July 15, 2026, when the defendants and other suspects allegedly forced their way into the airport’s VIP section during the arrival of the ADC governorship candidate.
The prosecution alleged that the group damaged the security lock at the Executive Gate and gained unauthorised access to a restricted area despite attempts by security personnel and airport management to stop them. Authorities said investigations into the incident are ongoing, including an assessment of the damage caused.
The prosecution urged the court to remand the defendants pending the conclusion of investigations.
Counsel for the defendants, Ayuba Rabiu, applied for bail, arguing that his clients were entitled to it under the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Gombe State and the Constitution. He also informed the court that the defendants had been in police custody since July 16.
After listening to arguments from both sides, Chief Magistrate Abubakar ordered that the two defendants remain in custody.
The court fixed July 23, 2026, to rule on the bail application and adjourned the substantive case until August 5, 2026, for further hearing.
The case remains under police investigation, while authorities continue efforts to identify and apprehend other suspects said to have participated in the airport disruption.
