The Kaduna state Police command has issued a security advisory banning a planned birthday rally in honour of former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi, warning that the gathering poses serious security risks.
In a statement signed by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, the police disclosed that credible intelligence indicated plans by criminal elements to infiltrate the proposed rally and hijack it to incite violence and disrupt public peace across the state.
The statement emphasised that “all forms of political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature remain suspended across the State until the official commencement date of political activities as stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).”
According to the police, the rally coincides with the date of party primaries for the forthcoming bye-election in the state, raising fears of possible clashes between supporters.
“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,” the statement noted.
The command has therefore strongly advised supporters of Mr. Obi to suspend the planned gathering to safeguard public safety and avoid legal consequences.
It warned that the police remain committed to protecting lives and property and “will not hesitate to take necessary legal action against any individual or group found violating this directive.”
The command also called for continued public cooperation to sustain peace and security in Kaduna State.