The Kaduna State Police Command has cancelled a planned rally organized by supporters of 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, citing security threats and the risk of public disorder.
The rally, which was scheduled to coincide with Obi’s birthday, was called off following intelligence reports indicating that criminal elements planned to infiltrate and hijack the event to incite violence and disrupt peace in the state.
In a statement, Command spokesperson DSP Mansir Hassan said:
All forms of political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature remain suspended across Kaduna State until the official commencement of political activities, as outlined by INEC.
The statement further noted that the rally date clashed with scheduled political party primaries, raising concerns about logistical disruptions, potential clashes, and breakdowns in law and order.
Organizers have been urged to suspend the event in the interest of public safety and to avoid it being hijacked by “miscreants.”
While acknowledging citizens’ right to freedom of association and celebration of political figures, the Command emphasized that the ban on political gatherings remains in effect.
The Kaduna State Police Command remains committed to ensuring public safety and will take appropriate legal action against any person or group that violates this directive, the statement concluded.