By DAYO ADESULU
The Kogi State Police Command has issued a strong advisory to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging her to cancel her planned Sallah rally in the Central Senatorial District of Kogi State. According to the police, the rally poses significant security risks and contradicts the recent ban on political gatherings imposed by the state government.
Police Cite Security Threats and Government Ban
The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, conveyed this directive on Tuesday in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP William Aya. The statement emphasized that intelligence reports had revealed possible security threats associated with the rally.
“Following intelligence reports on security threats in Kogi State and the subsequent ban on all forms of rallies and processions by the Kogi State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, Kogi State Command, has called on the organizers of the planned rally at Okene to cancel the event in the interest of peace,” the police statement read.
Hoodlums May Hijack Rally, Police Warn
The police further explained that intelligence reports suggested that criminal elements might infiltrate the rally, leading to a potential breakdown of law and order in the state.
“The call for cancellation becomes necessary as intelligence reveals that some hoodlums plan to hijack the process and cause disturbances. The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the state is currently enjoying,” the statement added.
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The police made it clear that they would enforce the full weight of the law against anyone who attempts to disrupt public order, warning that any unauthorized gathering would not be tolerated.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Defies Ban, Insists on Eid al-Fitr Celebration
Despite the warning and the state government’s directive banning political gatherings, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan remains resolute. She has declared that her visit to Kogi State is not politically motivated but rather a “homecoming” to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with her constituents.
“My visit to Kogi is not a political rally. It is a homecoming to celebrate Sallah with my people,” she stated.
Her insistence on proceeding with the event has sparked mixed reactions, with some supporting her right to engage with her constituents, while others caution against potential security risks.
State Government’s Ban on Political Gatherings
The Kogi State Government had, on Monday, issued a blanket ban on all political rallies and gatherings, citing security concerns. The decision was made to prevent any event that could escalate tensions or lead to violence in the state.
Political analysts have suggested that the ban may be a move to control opposition activities in the state, considering that Akpoti-Uduaghan has remained a vocal critic of the ruling administration.
Public Reactions to the Cancellation Request
The police advisory has drawn reactions from different quarters. While some residents support the ban, emphasizing the need for peace and stability, others see it as an attempt to suppress political engagement and freedom of assembly.
One resident of Okene, Ibrahim Musa, said: “Security should be the number one priority. If the police have intelligence that the rally could be hijacked by hoodlums, then it should be postponed.”
On the other hand, a supporter of Akpoti-Uduaghan, Sarah Okafor, argued that the rally should not be classified as a political event.
“She is simply coming to celebrate Sallah with her people. This should not be an issue unless the government has something to hide,” she remarked.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Security
The Kogi State Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace and security across the state. The statement assured residents that law enforcement agencies were working to prevent any form of violence or unrest during the festive period.
“The Command will not hesitate to apply the full wrath of the law on anyone who causes disturbance of peace and order in the state,” the police warned.
Conclusion
With rising political tensions in Kogi State, the call for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to cancel her planned Sallah rally underscores the delicate balance between security concerns and political engagement. While the police insist that their advisory is purely for public safety, the senator’s defiance raises questions about political freedoms in the state.
As the situation unfolds, residents and political stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see whether Akpoti-Uduaghan will proceed with her visit despite the warnings or heed the police advisory to maintain peace.
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