Tension In Kaduna: Police Ban Peter Obi’s Birthday Rally, Threaten Mass Arrests

The Kaduna State Police Command has prohibited a planned birthday rally in honor of the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, scheduled to take place in the state.

In an official statement issued on Saturday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the police warned that anyone or group who disobeys this directive will face legal consequences.

According to the Command, intelligence reports indicate that criminal elements plan to hijack the event to spark unrest, incite violence, and disrupt public peace in the state.

The statement emphasized that all political rallies and gatherings remain suspended across Kaduna until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declares the start of political activities.

“The Command acknowledges that the proposed rally by Obi’s supporters coincides with the date set aside by INEC for primary elections of various political parties in the state,” the statement noted. “Holding the rally would conflict with and disrupt designated venues for party primaries, increasing the risk of tension, clashes, and potential breakdown of law and order.”

While affirming the public’s right to peaceful assembly and support for political figures, the police urged the organisers of the Obi rally to postpone any planned gathering to avoid security threats and misuse by troublemakers.

The Command concluded by reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that it will take swift legal action against anyone who flouts the suspension order.