The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has addressed the police blockade of the 'Tinubu Must Go' (TMG) meeting in Kano, citing concerns for the safety of the members and residents of the state. In a live video, Abba Hikima, a convenor of the movement, alleged that over 10 mobile police vehicles were stationed at the venue to prevent the meeting. Hikima claimed this action violated their civic rights as citizens of Nigeria.
According to CP Bakori, the police command was aware of the TMG members' right to convene their meeting, but emphasized the importance of notifying the command to ensure adequate protection and avoid potential threats to peace in the state. He stated that notifying the police allows for regulation of the event and ensures that no tension arises. Bakori claimed he had contacted Hikima to discuss the matter, but was not answered.
The police commissioner revealed that the command was concerned about the event due to the large number of attendees, approximately 700 people, and the need to establish facts to ensure adequate security. He cited a recent incident in Sabon Gari, where weapons were seized from individuals claiming to be in Kano for a political event. Bakori stressed that the police were taking proactive measures to avoid potential threats to peace.
CP Bakori dismissed claims of a link with any political parties, stating that the command was only performing its duties to ensure peace and security in Kano. He noted that the police do not prevent people from organizing events, but rather advise that they be informed to enable the police to provide security. Bakori added that the command had previously provided security for events organized by the TMG members.
The TMG movement had planned to hold a meeting in Kano, which was blocked by the police due to concerns over safety and potential threats. Hikima had accused the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and CP Bakori of allowing politics to interfere with their statutory duties. The police action sparked controversy, with some members of the movement expressing outrage over the blockade.
CP Bakori emphasized that the police command's primary concern was the safety of everyone involved, including the organizers and their members. He stated that the matter could have been resolved through discussion to ensure the safety of all parties. Bakori reiterated that the police were working to protect the people of Kano State and Nigeria.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in balancing the rights of citizens to organize events with the need to maintain public safety and security. The police command's actions have sparked debate over the limits of police power and the rights of citizens to assemble and express their views.
Key points
- The Kano police commissioner cited concerns for safety and potential threats as reasons for blocking the 'Tinubu Must Go' meeting.
- The police command was aware of the TMG members' right to convene their meeting but emphasized the importance of notification to ensure adequate protection.
- The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in balancing citizens' rights with public safety and security concerns.
