The Kaduna State Police Command has banned a planned rally by supporters of 2023 Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, scheduled to celebrate his birthday in the state.
In a statement on Saturday, the Police warned that it will not hesitate to arrest any individual or group who goes ahead with the event in defiance of its directive.
Spokesperson for the Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, cited security concerns and intelligence reports suggesting that “certain criminal elements were 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 Command also explained that the timing of the rally clashed with political party primaries already scheduled for the same day, which were duly communicated to the Police in line with Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) protocols.
“The parties’ primaries for the forthcoming bye-election in the state are scheduled by INEC to take place on the same date as the proposed rally, and the parties have formally notified the Police of their event, in line with established protocols,” the statement read.
Police added that, “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.”
While acknowledging the right of citizens to associate and celebrate political leaders, the Police emphasised that political gatherings remain suspended across the state until INEC officially declares the commencement of political campaigns.
“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,” DSP Hassan added.
The Police urged the organisers of the Obi rally to call off the event to avoid compromising public safety and to prevent any hijack by miscreants.
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