By Pro-Obi Birthday Rally
Kaduna police halt march over security concerns
Summary
- Police cite security threats and clash risk with party primaries
- Obidient Movement’s proposed “Freedom Walk” cancelled after talks fail
- Claims of political suppression emerge but remain unproven
Kaduna, Nigeria — The Kaduna State Police Command has stopped a planned rally by supporters of Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, citing security concerns and a standing ban on unauthorised political gatherings.
The rally, scheduled for 19 July 2025 to mark Obi’s 64th birthday, was organised by the Obidient Movement under the banner “Freedom Walk & Fuel Relief Programme.”
According to DSP Mansir Hassan, spokesperson for the Command, intelligence reports revealed plans by criminal elements to infiltrate the gathering and incite violence.
The police also highlighted that the rally clashed with scheduled political party primaries for upcoming bye-elections, raising fears of tension and possible disruption of the electoral process.
In line with Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) protocols, all political rallies in Kaduna State remain suspended until the electoral body lifts its embargo on campaigns. Authorities warned that anyone who contravenes this directive would face legal consequences.
The Obidient Movement had attempted to scale down the event to include non-political activities such as visits to hospitals, IDP camps, and correctional centres, but the proposal was rejected by the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) due to a lack of prior notification and continued security risks.
In response, the organisers cancelled the event, with state coordinator Yusuf Danbaki urging supporters to remain calm and respect Obi’s commitment to peace and lawful conduct.
While some users on social media have speculated that the rally’s cancellation may signal political suppression amid Obi’s growing popularity, there is no conclusive evidence to support this.
The police insist that the suspension was purely a precautionary measure to safeguard public order.
