The Kaduna State Police Command has halted a scheduled rally by supporters of Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate for 2023.
It cautioned that legal action would be taken against any individuals or groups found to be in violation of this directive.
The rally was announced to take place in celebration of Obi's birthday.
The Command cited intelligence information indicating that some criminal elements plan to infiltrate and take over the proposed rally, using it as a platform for disruption, inciting violence, and disturbing public peace in the state.
In a statement by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the command announced that all political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature in Kaduna State are suspended throughout the state until the official start date for political activities.
According to the statement, INEC has scheduled primary elections by political parties for the same date that Obi supporters have planned their rally. The Kaduna police command points out that this overlap could disrupt several areas designated for other parties' primaries, creating a significant risk of tension, clashes, and potential breakdowns in law and order within the state.
The Command recommended that the organizers of the planned Peter Obi rally postpone any gatherings or processions to maintain public safety and prevent possible disturbances by troublemakers.
The Command points out that the primaries for parties involved in the upcoming bye-election are set by INEC to coincide with the date of the proposed rally. The parties have officially informed the Police about their events according to established protocols. It's crucial to note that this planned rally is anticipated to interfere with and disrupt multiple areas reserved for other political parties' primaries, which could lead to increased tension, possible clashes, and a potential breakdown of law and order.
Although the Command acknowledges individuals' rights to gather and honor their political leaders, it is crucial to stress that all types of political rallies and public gatherings are still on hold throughout the State. This suspension will remain in place until political activities officially begin, as determined by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Kaduna State Police Command is dedicated to protecting the lives and property of all residents and will promptly take legal action against any individual or group found violating this directive.
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