The Kaduna State Police Command has banned a rally planned in honour of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, citing security concerns and potential disruptions to ongoing political activities in the state.
The rally, organised by Obi’s supporters to mark his birthday, was scheduled to take place on the same day as the primary elections of some political parties.
According to the police, this timing poses a significant risk of tension and possible clashes.
In a statement on Saturday, the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, explained that intelligence reports indicated criminal elements were planning to infiltrate and hijack the rally, using it to incite violence and disrupt public peace.
The police warned that any individual or group found violating the directive would face legal action.
“All political rallies and gatherings of a political nature remain suspended across the state until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially opens the window for such activities,” the statement said.
The Command also noted that political parties had formally informed the police of their primary election schedules, in line with established procedures, unlike the organisers of the planned rally.
While acknowledging citizens’ right to associate and celebrate political figures, the police stressed the importance of maintaining public safety and preventing any actions that could lead to unrest.
They reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property and urged the public to comply with the directive.