The Kano State Government has accused the police of attempting to disrupt an annual religious event.
Addressing journalists at the Emir’s Palace on Friday evening, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, dismissed the alarms raised by the police.
The Kano Police Command had claimed to have received intelligence reports indicating that suspected terrorists were planning attacks on public gatherings in key locations across the state.
In response, Waiya stated that the police had unjustly blocked the venue for the National Tijjaniyya Maulud, a religious event that has been celebrated annually for 39 years.
“Kano State, renowned as a historical centre of Islamic scholarship and religious harmony, remains committed to fostering and supporting activities that promote peace, unity, and spiritual growth,” he affirmed.
“This action is not only unnecessary but also unjustified, as there have been no reports of any security threats in Kano State to warrant such extreme measures. The presence of security operatives at this significant religious gathering is unwarranted and unacceptable.”
The commissioner announced that despite the police’s actions, the Maulud would proceed as scheduled at Kofar Mata Stadium, assuring attendees that the state government would not permit any disruption.
“The National Tijjaniyya Maulud will take place as planned from 8:00 AM at Kofar Mata Stadium. This religious gathering is organised by a legitimately registered and recognised body, and any attempt to obstruct it would infringe upon citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and religious practice in Nigeria,” Waiya declared.
He further urged the Federal Government to immediately withdraw its security personnel from the venue, emphasising that Kofar Mata Stadium is the property of the Kano State Government.
“There is no justification for any external force to obstruct a legitimate religious gathering. Kano State has always stood as a beacon of peace and religious tolerance, and we will not tolerate any form of intimidation or undue interference in our internal affairs,” he asserted.
