The Kano State Police Command has swiftly prohibited all street protests within the State. Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Usaini Gumel, declared this measure on Monday, citing credible intelligence that reveals the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) intend to assemble paid gatherings under the façade of a Civil Society Coalition, ostensibly due to their concerns and in an attempt to influence the anticipated ruling of the state’s election Tribunal.
“In consideration of the confirmatory intelligence reports at the disposal of this Police Command, all forms of street protests are hereby banned across all parts of the State.
“Members of the public should, therefore, note that it has come to our knowledge that both the APC and the NNPP members are currently mobilizing rented crowds in the guise of Civil Society Coalition and without clearance from the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and prior approval from the security agencies in the State.
“Both organisers, as well as the umbrella body, should note that any attempt to disrespect NLC and the Security Agencies in the State, by playing around with the fragile security situation, which the combined security agencies have been managing, is not only uncivil, criminal but also an offence against National Security.
“Checks have so far been conducted by this Police Command and It’s revealing that some members of both political parties are influencing the members of the Civil Society to embark on this decision merely as a result of their apprehensions and to pre-empt the judgement of the election Tribunal.
“Finally, this Police Command is ever grateful for the enormous support and cooperation it has been enjoying from the good people of the State for the peace, security, stability and the overall interest of all residents,” he said.
