The Kaduna State Police Command has announced the suspension of a planned rally by supporters of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, organized to celebrate his birthday.
DSP Mansir Hassan, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the state, revealed that credible intelligence indicated the rally could be infiltrated by suspected criminal elements aiming to incite violence and disrupt public peace.
“Given the security intelligence received, the rally posed a potential risk to public order,” DSP Hassan explained.
All Political Gatherings Suspended Until INEC Signals
According to the police, all political rallies and gatherings in Kaduna State remain suspended until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially announces the commencement of political campaigns.
Vanguard reports that the planned rally coincided with scheduled party primaries in the state, leading to fears that overlapping events might heighten tension, spark clashes, and cause a breakdown of law and order.
“Political parties planning events must notify the command in advance, following the established protocols,” the statement added.
Coalition Movement Picks Up Steam Ahead of 2027
The rally ban comes amid growing momentum in the opposition, as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and several prominent figures—including Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, David Mark, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola—have aligned under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
At least three coalition leaders, including Obi, have signaled interest in contesting the ADC’s presidential ticket. Meanwhile, Obi and Amaechi are reportedly advocating for the ticket to be zoned to the South, pledging to seek only a single term if elected.
This coalition positions itself as a united front aiming to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general election.
Atiku, Obi, and other leaders have vowed to “rescue Nigeria” by defeating Tinubu in 2027.
Obi Affirms Loyalty to Labour Party
Despite his involvement in the coalition, Peter Obi has clarified that he remains a committed member of the Labour Party and intends to run under its banner in the 2027 presidential election.
Obi stressed that several Labour Party lawmakers also belong to the coalition movement, which he described as a broader strategy to build alliances rather than a move to abandon the party.
“I am still in the Labour Party, and my commitment to running in 2027 has not changed,” Obi affirmed.
Meanwhile, the APC has continued to welcome defectors from the PDP and Labour Party, expressing optimism about retaining power in the next election cycle.
