Police Ban Procession In Sokoto Amid Tension Over Tribunal Ruling Today

The Sokoto State Police Command has banned any form of procession before and after the governorship election tribunal judgment in the state scheduled to be delivered today (Saturday).

The Police commissioner in Sokoto, Ali Kaigama, made the procession ban known in a statement released on Friday by the command’s spokesman, Ahmad Rufai, in Sokoto.

Kaigama said anyone planning to hold processions or celebrations in relation to the judgment should desist, saying that any form of gathering that violates the law or disrupts the peace will not be tolerated.

He, therefore, urged residents of the state to remain law-abiding and to promptly inform the police and other relevant security authorities about any potential issues of concern.

The statement reads: “It has come to our attention that there may be intentions to hold processions or celebrations in relation to the judgment,” the statement reads.

“Sokoto state has earned a reputation as one of the most peaceful states in our great nation, and we intend to maintain that dignity.

“I am making it unequivocally clear that any form of procession or gathering that violates the law or disrupts the peace will not be tolerated.

“We urge residents of Sokoto State to remain law-abiding and to promptly inform the police and other relevant security authorities about any potential issues of concern.

“The cooperation and vigilance of the people are crucial in maintaining the peace and security we all cherish.”

The tribunal had in August reserved judgment in the petition filed by Sa’idu Umar, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), challenging the election of Ahmed Aliyu, Sokoto governor.