Cancel your rally or face the law – Police warns Natasha Akpoti

The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, has directed the suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduagan, to cancel her planned Sallah rally.

This directive was issued on Tuesday in a statement signed by the State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya, Naija News reports.

Despite the state government’s recent ban on political gatherings and rallies, Akpoti-Uduagan had insisted on proceeding with her “homecoming,” stating that her visit was solely to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents.

However, Commissioner Dantawaye emphasized that the planned rally contravenes the government’s directive, warning that intelligence reports indicate a potential security threat. According to him, some hoodlums are allegedly planning to hijack the event and disrupt public peace.

The police statement read:
“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 Kogi State Police Command has called on the organizers of the planned rally in Okene to cancel the event in the interest of peace.”

It further stressed that maintaining public order remains a priority, warning that any attempt to breach the peace would not be tolerated.

“The call for cancellation is necessary as intelligence has revealed plans by hoodlums to hijack the event and cause disturbances. The Command will not allow the existing peace in the state to be jeopardized.”

The police advised the organizers to comply with the directive to prevent any breakdown of law and order, adding that law enforcement would take firm action against anyone found instigating unrest in the state.