The Kogi State Police Command has ordered Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to cancel her planned Sallah homecoming rally in the Central Senatorial District, citing security concerns.
The directive was issued on Tuesday by the Kogi State April 1, 2025 of Police, Miller Dantawaye, through a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya. The police stated that the rally violates a recent ban on political gatherings imposed by the state government.
According to the statement, intelligence reports indicate potential security threats, with fears that hoodlums might hijack the event to cause unrest. “Following the intelligence report 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 Police Command, has called on the organisers of the planned rally at Okene to cancel such an event in the interest of peace,” the statement read.
The police emphasized that maintaining the current peace in the state is a priority and warned that legal action would be taken against anyone who disrupts public order.
“The Command will not hesitate to apply the full wrath of the law on anyone who causes a disturbance,” the statement added.
Despite the government’s ban, Akpoti-Uduaghan has insisted that she will proceed with her visit, arguing that she is merely returning home to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents. Her stance has sparked concerns over potential confrontations between her supporters and law enforcement agencies.
The state government had, on Monday, announced a blanket ban on political gatherings and rallies, citing rising tensions and the need to prevent violence ahead of the upcoming elections.
The move has drawn mixed reactions, with some critics arguing that it unfairly targets opposition figures.
