KANO, Nigeria – The Kano State Police Command have issued a stern warning against any form of protests or public gatherings in the aftermath of the tribunal’s decisions.
Reports suggest that both the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, and the All Progressives Congress, APC, have been preparing crowds to stage protests in response to the tribunal outcomes.
The NNPP, alleging attempts by the APC to undermine their electoral victory, had planned to lead a march from Kofar Nassarawa City Center to the Government House.
In a swift counter-move on Monday, August 21, 2023, the APC, through its spokesperson, Ahmad Aruwa, called on its members to gather in a show of strength against the NNPP’s planned protest.
However, with tensions reaching a fever pitch, the Kano State Police Command, led by State Commissioner Muhammad Gumel, moved to outlaw any street protests.
Gumel warned against disrespecting the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the state’s security agencies in a strongly-worded statement.
“Any attempt to play around the fragile security situation…is not only uncivil and criminal but also an offense against National Security,” he emphasized.
He also raised concerns over “rented crowds” being mobilized by both parties under the guise of a Civil Society Coalition without clearance from the NLC or prior security approval.
Kano State has long been a political hotspot in Nigerian politics, with elections often sparking widespread passions and occasionally leading to incidents of violence.
The police’s move is being seen by many as an attempt to preempt any potential unrest and ensure the safety of residents.
Commissioner Gumel took the opportunity to express gratitude to the state’s residents for their continued cooperation and support in maintaining peace and stability.
However, with political temperatures rising, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether Kano remains calm or becomes a flashpoint for post-election tensions.
