The Kaduna State Police Command has halted a planned rally by supporters of the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, scheduled to mark his birthday celebration.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the command warned that it would take necessary legal action against any individuals or groups violating the directive.
The police cited intelligence reports indicating that criminal elements intended to infiltrate and hijack the rally to incite violence and disrupt public peace in Kaduna State.
“All forms of political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature in Kaduna State remain suspended until the official commencement date of political activities as stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),” the statement said.
The planned rally was set to coincide with the date of party primaries organized by INEC, which the police noted would cause overlap and disruption in several locations designated for other parties’ primaries. This overlap, the police warned, posed a significant risk of tension, clashes, and breakdown of law and order in the state.
The command urged the organisers of the Peter Obi rally to suspend their activities to ensure public safety and prevent any potential hijacking by miscreants.
“The parties have formally notified the Police of their events in accordance with established protocols,” DSP Hassan added. “While we respect the right of individuals to associate and celebrate political leaders, it is imperative that all political rallies and public gatherings remain suspended until the official start of political activities as mandated by INEC.”
The Kaduna State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all residents and reiterated that any violation of this directive would result in legal consequences.
