The Kaduna State Police Command has warned against the extension of the planned rally by Peter Obi supporters in honor of his birthday, to the state.
The command warned that the directive is strict and it would take legal actions against anyone/group who tries to go against it.
Contained in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, on Saturday, the command disclosed that they received an intelligence report that some criminal elements are planning to hijack the rally and take advantage of it to cause trouble in the state.
The ban was also extended to all forms of political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature in Kaduna State until the official commencement date of political activities as stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
The statement read, “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.
“The Command further notes that the Parties primaries for the forthcoming bye election in the state are scheduled by INEC to take place on the same date as the proposed rally, and the parties have formally notified the Police of their event, in line with established protocols. It is important to state that 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.
“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 the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“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.”
