The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has ordered the rescheduling of a planned two-million-man solidarity march for Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, in Uyo.
The march, organised by the Obidient Movement, was scheduled for October 1 as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s Independence Day.
In a statement, the police said it cancelled previously granted approvals for political rallies, meetings and processions across the state after receiving intelligence suggesting that some individuals could exploit the activities to cause disturbances and threaten public safety.
The command directed all affected groups to reschedule their activities.
However, the decision drew criticism from the Obidient Movement. Its Akwa Ibom State Director, Benjamin Smith, accused the police of frustrating the planned march, saying the organisers had earlier received approval for the event.
Smith also claimed that the movement had spent more than N20 million mobilising supporters across the state’s 31 local government areas.
According to him, the organisers had met with the police on September 29, where security concerns surrounding the planned march were discussed.
The police, however, said the decision was based on security considerations, including concerns over the ability to provide adequate personnel for a large gathering and the possibility of clashes with other political activities scheduled in the state.
The development comes amid increased political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Source: Punch, with additional reports from Premium Times.
