The Kaduna State Police Command has issued a security alert, prohibiting supporters of Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, from holding an unauthorised political rally in the state.
This directive was contained in a statement released over the weekend by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, who revealed that credible intelligence had been received about a planned rally to mark Obi’s birthday.
According to the police, while they respect citizens’ rights to association and political expression, the proposed gathering has been banned due to concerns over public safety and potential disruption.
“The Kaduna State Police Command wishes to bring to the attention of the general public that it has received credible intelligence regarding a planned political rally by supporters of Mr. Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate, in honour of his birthday,” the statement read.
The Command further noted that, in accordance with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines, all political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature remain suspended across the state until the official commencement of political activities.
“Additionally, intelligence at the disposal of the Command indicates that certain criminal elements are planning to infiltrate and hijack the proposed rally, using it as a platform to cause disruption, incite violence, and disturb the prevailing public peace in the state,” the statement added.
The Command also raised concerns about the timing of the rally, which coincides with political party primaries for an upcoming bye-election in the state—events that have already been duly registered with the police.
“The planned rally is expected to overlap with and disrupt several areas designated for the conduct of the other political parties’ primaries, thereby posing a significant risk of tension, clashes, and breakdown of law,” Hassan said.
In light of these developments, the police have urged organisers of the rally to suspend all related activities and avoid public processions in order to prevent the event from being hijacked by miscreants.
“The Kaduna State Police Command remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all residents and will not hesitate to take necessary legal action against any individual or group found violating this directive,” the statement warned.
The Command concluded by appealing for continued public cooperation to maintain peace and order across the state.
