The Kaduna State Police Command has banned a planned tally to celebrate the 64th birthday of a former governor Anambra State and Labour Party chieftain, Peter Obi, threatening legal actions against whoever violates the directive.

In a statement by the state police spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, the police warned that the “planned rally is expected to overlap with and disrupt several areas designated for the conduct of the other political parties’ primaries, thereby posing a significant risk of tension, clashes, and breakdown of law.

It stated that the Kaduna State police command remained committed to safeguarding the lives and property of residents and would not hesitate to take necessary legal action against any individual or group found violating the directive.

The police stated, “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, and the parties have formally notified the police of their event, in line with established protocols.

“While the command respects the right of individuals to associate and celebrate their political leaders, it is important to emphasise that all forms of political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature remain suspended across the state until the official commencement date of political activities, as stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).’’