Kogi: Police issue directives to Natasha over homecoming event

The Kogi State Police Command has called on suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagan to cancel her planned Sallah rally in the Kogi Central Senatorial District.

The police cited concerns over a state directive banning political gatherings.

In an official statement, the Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, through the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya, emphasized that the rally would be in violation of the State Government’s directive issued on Monday.

The directive aims to prevent political gatherings to maintain peace and security in the state.

READ ALSO: Natasha brushes off Kogi rally ban, reaffirms Sallah visit to constituency

The statement reads, “Following the intelligence report on security threats in Kogi State and the subsequent ban on all forms of Rally and procession by the Kogi State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, Kogi State Police Command has called on the organisers of planned rally at Okene to cancel such event in the interest of the peace in Kogi State.

“The call for cancellation becomes necessary, noting that intelligence reveals that some hoodlums plan to hijack the process and cause disturbance of peace in the State. The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the State is currently enjoying.

“In view of the security threat received on the planned rally, the Kogi State Police Command is therefore advising the organisers to cancel the event so as to avoid any breakdown of law and order in the State. As the Command will not hesitate to apply the full wrath of law on any one who causes disturbance of peace and order in the State.”

Despite the State Government’s proclamation on Monday banning political gatherings and rallies, Akpoti-Uduaghan has insisted on proceeding with the “homecoming.”

She emphasised that her visit is solely to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with constituents.