BudgIT, a civic technology organisation that promotes transparency and accountability in public finance has condemned the brutal attack on its Katsina State officer, Mustapha Sadiq, who was assaulted by armed assailants in his residence.

In a statement signed by its Country Director, Vahyala Kwaga, on Friday, the organisation said the incident occurred on April 4, 2026, when five men wielding machetes reportedly broke into Sadiq’s home at night and inflicted severe injuries on him.

The statement read, “Initial reports indicate that five men, wielding machetes, broke into his residence at night on the 4th of April 2026 and inflicted severe injuries to his head and upper body.”

The organisation said the attackers targeted Sadiq’s head and upper body, leaving him with injuries that required urgent medical attention.

Describing the incident as disturbing and unacceptable, BudgIT stated, “This was a deeply disturbing and unacceptable act of violence.”

It added, “While the attackers also attempted to steal his vehicle, they were unsuccessful, leaving Mustapha with serious injuries that required urgent medical attention.”

BudgIT said it was still monitoring developments surrounding the attack and had yet to determine whether the incident was connected to Sadiq’s professional duties.

“At this time, we are uncertain if the attack was connected to his professional and civic responsibilities of tracking public projects,” the statement noted.

The organisation, however, expressed concern over the nature and severity of the attack.

“No individual should be subjected to such violence under any circumstances,” it added.

BudgIT said it had lodged a formal complaint with the Nigerian Police Force and would engage relevant security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators were identified and brought to justice.

“We expect a prompt, thorough and transparent investigation into this incident,” it said.

It further urged the police to investigate possible links between the attack and Sadiq’s accountability work.

“We are also asking the police to explore if this has to do with his work of holding the government accountable in a very volatile environment and continuous challenges with the closing civic space,” the statement added.

The organisation called on authorities to take decisive steps to improve safety and security.

“Acts of this nature undermine public confidence and must not be allowed to persist without consequence,” it stated.

BudgIT expressed sympathy with Sadiq and his family, saying, “Our thoughts are with Mustapha and his family at this difficult time. We wish him a full and speedy recovery.” (The PUNCH)

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