The Kaduna State Police Command has warned supporters of the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, (LP) Peter Obi, against going ahead with a planned political rally in honour of his birthday, citing security concerns and a prevailing ban on political gatherings in the state.
In a statement issued yesterday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the police said they had received credible intelligence suggesting that criminal elements were plotting to infiltrate and hijack the rally to cause chaos and breach the peace.
The Police said while they recognised the constitutional rights of individuals to freedom of association and expression, all political gatherings remain suspended in Kaduna State until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially lifts the embargo ahead of forthcoming bye-elections.
The police also pointed out that the same date proposed for the rally coincided with the political parties’ primaries for the bye-elections scheduled by INEC, for which the various political parties had duly informed the Command in line with extant regulations.
According to the statement, the Command fears that any unsanctioned gathering, such as the one proposed by Obi’s supporters, might clash with venues designated for legitimate party primaries, creating tension and the potential for violence.
The Command advised organisers of the planned event to suspend any such gathering, noting that any form of public assembly in honour of Obi should be put on hold in the interest of public peace and security.
“If they wish to hold any form of event in honour of their principal, it is advised that such activities be suspended to ensure public safety and prevent potential hijack by miscreants”, it stated.
The Command reiterated its readiness to enforce the law against any person or group that disregards the directive, stressing its commitment to maintaining law and order across the state.
The warning comes amid heightened political tensions in Kaduna following recent security breaches and fears of politically motivated violence as the bye-elections approach.
The Police expressed gratitude to the general public for their cooperation in maintaining peace and order, urging all political stakeholders and their supporters to act responsibly and respect the rule of law.
As of the time of filing this report, organisers of the proposed Peter Obi birthday rally were yet to issue any official reaction to the Police directive.
