Kaduna Police Stop Pro-Peter Obi Rally, Issue Stern Warning

The Kaduna State Police Command has stopped a planned rally by supporters of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, citing security concerns and existing restrictions on political gatherings in the state.

The rally, scheduled to mark Obi’s birthday, was blocked following intelligence reports suggesting that criminal elements intended to infiltrate the event to cause disruption and incite violence. The police emphasized the need to maintain public order and prevent any threat to peace.

In a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, the police reiterated that all political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature remain suspended in Kaduna State until the official start of the campaign season, as outlined by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The police further noted that INEC has scheduled primary elections for several political parties on the same date as the planned rally. According to the statement, the overlap raised concerns about possible clashes and logistical disruptions, particularly in areas designated for party primaries. The parties involved had already informed the police of their events, in line with established procedures.

While acknowledging citizens’ rights to assemble and celebrate political figures, the Command urged the organisers of the pro-Obi rally to suspend any plans for public gatherings. It warned that anyone found violating the directive would face legal consequences.

The Kaduna State Police Command affirmed its commitment to public safety and stressed that it will take necessary actions to ensure peace and security across the state.