The Kaduna State Police Command has halted a planned birthday rally in honour of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, warning that arrests will be made if the event proceeds.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the police cited credible intelligence indicating that criminal elements intended to hijack the rally to incite violence and disrupt public peace.

The rally, organised by Obi supporters, was scheduled to hold on the same date as political party primaries for an upcoming bye-election, sparking concerns over potential clashes.

“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,” the statement read. “The parties have formally notified the Police of their event, in line with established protocols. The planned rally is expected to overlap with and disrupt several areas designated for the conduct of other political parties’ primaries, thereby posing a significant risk of tension, clashes, and breakdown of law and order.”

The Command reiterated that all political rallies and public political gatherings remain suspended in Kaduna State until the official commencement of campaign activities as scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

While acknowledging the constitutional rights to association and peaceful assembly, the police stressed that such rights must align with prevailing security protocols.

“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,” Hassan added.

The police urged organisers to suspend the rally in the interest of public safety and warned that any attempt to defy the order would be met with firm legal consequences.