Kaduna State Police Command has announced a prohibition on a proposed rally organized by supporters of the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, to mark his birthday in the state, citing security risks and clashes with scheduled political party primaries.
The Command issued a stern warning on Saturday, threatening to arrest any individuals or groups who defy the ban. According to a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the rally, which was planned to take place on the same day as several political parties’ primary elections, posed a significant risk to public safety.
“Credible intelligence at our disposal indicates that certain criminal elements plan to infiltrate the rally, using it as an opportunity to incite violence and disturb the public peace,” the police stated.
The Command further explained that the rally would likely disrupt ongoing political party primaries in various parts of the state, increasing the risk of political tension and clashes between rival supporters.
“The planned rally will overlap and disrupt several areas designated for the conduct of other parties’ primaries, thereby posing a significant risk of tension, clashes, and a breakdown of law and order in the state,” the statement read.
The police emphasized that while citizens have the right to freely associate and celebrate public figures, all political rallies or events of a political nature remain suspended in Kaduna State until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially opens the window for campaign activities.
“While the Command respects the right of individuals to associate and celebrate their political leaders, it is important to emphasise 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 INEC,” the statement added.
The statement also clarified that political parties conducting primaries on the same day had properly notified the police in advance, in compliance with electoral regulations. This, according to the Command, further complicated the logistics and security implications of hosting a rally simultaneously.
The Kaduna Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order in the state and warned that any attempt to flout the directive would be met with appropriate legal action.
“The Kaduna State Police Command remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all residents and will not hesitate to take necessary legal action against any individual or group found violating this directive.”
As of press time, there was no official response from the Labour Party or Mr. Obi’s spokesperson regarding the police ban. However, the decision has sparked mixed reactions among Obi’s supporters on social media, with some accusing the authorities of political suppression.
The development underscores rising tensions as Nigeria prepares for a series of off-season elections and party primaries, with security agencies on high alert to prevent political violence or instability.
