One person identified as Shamsudeen Adamu Mali has reportedly died following a stabbing incident during a campaign rally in support of All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates at the Emir’s Palace in Jalingo, Taraba state, on Wednesday.

The rally was reportedly held in support of candidates, including the incumbent member representing Jalingo/Yorro/Zing Federal Constituency, Sadiq Abbas Tafida.

When contacted for confirmation, the spokesperson for the Taraba State Police Command, Victor Mshelizah, acknowledged that the incident had occurred but said he was yet to obtain further details.

“Yes, the incident actually happened, though I wasn’t able to follow up. I was in a meeting, just coming out, but I will make calls now,” Mshelizah said.

In a statement dated October 28, 2026, the Media Office of Sadiq Abbas Tafida denied allegations linking the lawmaker to the organisation of the rally or the reported death.

The statement said the gathering was independently organised by Majidadi youths in support of APC candidates and was neither organised by Tafida nor held under his direction.

It also rejected any suggestion that the lawmaker should be held responsible for the incident based on his political affiliation or public position, insisting that any claim of culpability must be supported by credible evidence.

“The Jalingo APC rally should not be linked to the unfortunate loss of a youth without credible evidence establishing the circumstances of the incident and any connection to the gathering,” the statement said.

The lawmaker’s office expressed sympathy with the bereaved family and urged the public to allow the facts surrounding the incident to emerge through a thorough and impartial investigation.

Tafida’s office called on relevant security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported death and any other credible reports of unlawful conduct connected with the gathering.

It urged the authorities to establish the facts, determine whether any offence had been committed, and identify anyone whose responsibility could be established through evidence.

The statement added that anyone found culpable should face the law, regardless of political affiliation, while warning against condemning individuals based solely on speculation or allegations circulating in the media.

It also appealed to members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified accounts while the authorities investigate the incident.

The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to peace, security and peaceful coexistence in Taraba State, while urging political leaders, supporters and youth groups to avoid violence and actions capable of heightening political tension. (The Guardian, excluding headline)