The Kaduna State Police Command has banned a proposed political rally by supporters of former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, citing security concerns.
The rally, reportedly planned in celebration of Obi’s birthday, was halted following credible intelligence suggesting it could be hijacked by criminal elements to incite violence and disrupt public order.
This was contained in a statement issued by the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, on Friday.
According to the statement, the Command warned that all forms of political rallies or public gatherings remain suspended in the state until the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC,formally declares the start of political campaigns.
It added that multiple political parties had scheduled their primaries for the same day, with proper notification submitted to the police in line with protocol, raising concerns that overlapping events could escalate tension and trigger a breakdown of law and order.
“In view of these developments, the command strongly advises the organisers of the planned Peter Obi rally to suspend any gathering or procession,” the statement read.
“If they wish to honour their principal, such activities should be conducted in a safe and non-disruptive manner.”
The Command warned that it would not hesitate to take legal action against any individual or group found violating the directive.