The Nigeria Police Force in Kogi State has urged suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to cancel her scheduled Sallah rally in the Kogi Central Senatorial District, citing security risks and a state government directive prohibiting political gatherings.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PRO), ASP William Aya, Kogi State Commissioner of Police Miller Dantawaye emphasized that the planned rally in Okene violated a ban on political gatherings imposed by the Kogi State Government on Monday. The government’s directive aims to mitigate potential security threats ahead of the Sallah festivities.
“Following the intelligence report on security threats in Kogi State and the subsequent ban on all forms of rally and procession by the Kogi State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, Kogi State Police Command has called on the organisers of the planned rally at Okene to cancel such event in the interest of the peace in Kogi State,” the statement read.
The police expressed concerns over the potential hijacking of the rally by hoodlums, which could lead to a disruption of public peace. "The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the State is currently enjoying,” the statement added, urging the rally organizers to heed the security advice and cancel the event to prevent any law and order breakdown.
Despite the police warning, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has insisted on proceeding with the rally, maintaining that it is solely for the purpose of celebrating Eid al-Fitr with her constituents. The rally, according to her, is not politically motivated, though it comes amid her ongoing suspension and political controversies.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between political activities and maintaining public order, with Kogi State authorities taking a firm stance to ensure peace and security during the festive period.
