The Kogi State Police Command has directed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagan to cancel her planned Sallah rally in the Central Senatorial District, citing security concerns.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya, the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, emphasized that the rally violates the state government’s recent ban on political gatherings.
The statement reads:
“Following intelligence reports on security threats in Kogi State and the subsequent ban on all forms of rallies and processions by the state government, the Nigeria Police Force, Kogi State Command, has called on the organisers of the planned rally in Okene to cancel the event in the interest of peace.”
The police further stated that intelligence reports indicate that hoodlums may attempt to hijack the gathering and cause public disturbances.
“The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the state is currently enjoying.”
The police warned that any defiance of the directive would be met with legal consequences, stating:
“The Command will not hesitate to apply the full wrath of the law on anyone who causes a disturbance of peace and order in the state.”
Despite this, Akpoti-Uduaghan has insisted that she will proceed with the event, describing it as a “homecoming” and stating that her visit is simply to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents.
