Kaduna Police Halt Pro-Peter Obi Rally, Warn of Arrests for Defaulters
In a move that has sparked political tension and public debate, the Kaduna State Police Command has stopped a planned rally in support of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The rally, organized by his supporters to celebrate his birthday, was scheduled to take place on July 19, 2025. According to police authorities, the decision was taken due to pressing security concerns and the need to prevent possible disruption of political activities currently underway in the state.
Speaking to the press, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, stated that the ban on the rally was informed by credible intelligence reports suggesting that certain criminal elements planned to hijack the event and turn it into a platform for unrest. He further explained that the proposed gathering coincided with political primary elections scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), thereby posing a serious threat to public order and the smooth conduct of those primaries.
“The timing and nature of this rally make it unsafe, especially when viewed against the backdrop of scheduled primary elections and rising political tensions,” Hassan said. “We urge all organizers and participants to respect the law. Any attempt to defy this directive will be met with arrest and legal action.”
The police command emphasized that it is not targeting any political group or individual but rather acting in the interest of public safety. They maintained that all political activities are currently suspended in the state until the official campaign season is declared open by INEC.
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from the public. While some residents expressed support for the police’s cautionary stance, others accused the authorities of using security as a pretext to clamp down on opposition voices. Critics noted that similar rallies in other states have been held without incident, and questioned why Kaduna would treat the event differently.
Supporters of Peter Obi have condemned the move as an act of political suppression, arguing that the rally was intended to be peaceful and non-partisan. Social media was awash with reactions, with many accusing the state government of attempting to silence expressions of support for opposition figures.
This is not the first time political gatherings in Kaduna have faced restrictions. The state, often considered a flashpoint during national election cycles, has in recent years witnessed heightened tension during politically sensitive periods. With the 2027 general elections drawing closer, observers worry that such interventions may further deepen mistrust between the public and law enforcement agencies.
As the political atmosphere continues to heat up nationwide, all eyes remain on Kaduna and the response from Peter Obi’s camp, which is yet to issue an official statement on the matter. For now, the police have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring peace and security, warning that no unauthorized political gathering will be allowed within the state.
