Operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command have halted a planned rally organized by supporters of Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, citing security concerns and the potential for disruption.
The rally, intended to commemorate Obi’s birthday, was reportedly called off after intelligence reports suggested that criminal elements planned to infiltrate the event.
According to the police, the gathering could have been hijacked and used to incite violence or disturb the peace across the state.
In a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, the police emphasized that all political rallies and gatherings of a political nature remain suspended in Kaduna until the Independent National Electoral Commission formally permits the commencement of political activities.
“While the primary elections by political parties are scheduled by INEC to hold on the same date the Obi supporters planned for their rally, the Kaduna Police Command notes that the rally will overlap and disrupt several areas designated for the conduct of other parties’ primaries, thereby posing a significant risk of tension, clashes, and breakdown of law and order in the state,” Hassan stated.
The Command also reiterated its resolve to protect lives and property, warning that it would not hesitate to take legal action against anyone who defies the directive.
“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,” the statement added.
Organizers of the Obi rally have been urged to suspend all planned gatherings to avoid security threats and prevent exploitation by criminal elements.