THE Kano State Government has alleged that the police attempted to obstruct an annual religious event.
Speaking to journalists at the Emir’s Palace on Friday evening, the state Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, refuted earlier claims made by the police that suspected terrorists were planning to target public gatherings in major locations across the state.
In response, Waiya criticised the police for what he described as an unjustified blockade of the venue for the National Tijjaniyya Maulud, a religious event that has been held annually for 39 years.
He stated, “Kano State, as a historical centre of Islamic scholarship and religious harmony, remains committed to upholding and supporting activities that promote peace, unity, and spiritual growth.”
“This action is not only unnecessary but also unjustified, as there has been no report of any security threat in Kano State that would warrant such an extreme measure. The presence of security operatives at the venue of this significant religious activity is unwarranted and unacceptable.”
He affirmed that, despite the police’s actions, the Maulud would go ahead as planned at Kofar Mata Stadium. He assured attendees that the state government was committed to ensuring the event proceeded without any disruptions.
He stated, “The National Tijjaniyya Maulud will be held as planned from 8:00 AM at Kofar Mata Stadium. This religious gathering is organized by a legitimately registered and recognized body, and any attempt to obstruct it would be a violation of the citizens’ right to lawful assembly and religious practice in Nigeria.”
He called on the federal government to withdraw its security agencies from the venue immediately, stressing that Kofar Mata Stadium belonged to the state.
“There is no justification for any external force to obstruct a legitimate religious gathering. “Kano State has always been a beacon of peace and religious tolerance, and we will not accept any form of intimidation or undue interference in our internal affairs,” he said.
Earlier on Friday, the police warn Kano residents of possible terrorist attacks in public gatherings in strategic locations within the state.
