The Kogi State Police Command has advised Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to cancel her planned Sallah rally in Kogi Central Senatorial District, citing security concerns and a state-wide ban on political gatherings.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya, Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, warned that intelligence reports indicate a potential security threat linked to the event.
“Following intelligence reports of security threats in Kogi State and the state government’s recent ban on all forms of rally and procession, the police command is calling on the organisers of the planned rally in Okene to cancel the event in the interest of peace and stability,” the statement read.
The police further warned that criminal elements may attempt to hijack the gathering, potentially leading to unrest in the state.
“The call for cancellation has become necessary as intelligence suggests that hoodlums may exploit the event to cause disturbances. The Command will not allow any activity that could jeopardize the prevailing peace in the state.”
The statement emphasized that the police will not hesitate to enforce the law against any individuals or groups who go against the directive.
Despite the security warning and Monday’s state-wide ban on political gatherings, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan remains adamant about proceeding with her homecoming visit, insisting that her trip is purely to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents and not a political event.
