By Kamil Opeyemi
The Nigerian Police Force on Friday said all forms of street protests have been banned in Kano state until further notice.
This is coming amidst tensions over alleged plans by supporters of both the All Progressive Congress and the New Nigerian People’s Party to hit the streets on Saturday.
The state has been in the eyes of all since last Friday after the judgment of the Appeal Tribunal which ruled in favour of the candidate of the APC, Nasir Gawuna.
However things took another turn four days after the verdict as a copy of the Certified True Copy of the judgment read contrary to what the tribunal judges read in the open court.
This development led to further tension in the state as the APC said what was being regarded as favourable aspects of the judgement was a mere clerical error.
The Appeal Court itself said the claims in the CTC were mere errors in writing the judgement.
In a statement made available to journalists on Friday, the police command urged Kano residents to remain loyal and refrain from participating in illegal gatherings, protests, or marches.
The security agency further assured residents of it’s commitment to protecting life and properties of the citizens.
The statement reads: ”Credible information at the Command’s disposal revealed that some groups of people claiming to be political party supporters of both NNPP and APC are using various media platforms and mobilizing people and planning to enter the streets on Saturday, November 25 2023, to stage a protest against the Kano State Governorship Appeal Court’s verdict.
The information further revealed that the intention of the protesters is to shutdown the state and attack prominent political party opponents, the action which may likely result in violence”.
“The joint security agencies in the State have concluded all necessary arrangements to ensure that the well-being and security of the people of the State remain intact. Hence, those planning to come out on the planned dates for the protest are advised to change their mindset, sheath their swords and cooperate with the Police and other security agencies for the good of the State.”
“In view of the above, the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Police Command, CP Mohammed Usaini Gumel, FIPMA, psc calls on all residents to maintain calmness and avoid any form of unlawful gathering, protest, or procession that may trigger violence as joint security forces have since been dispatched to strategic locations to safeguard peace and order throughout the State.”