The Kano state government has insisted that the annual National Tijjaniyya Maulud programme scheduled for Saturday will be held at Sani Abacha Stadium.
Police had earlier on Friday issued a statement, saying they uncovered terrorists’ plan to cause mayhem in state, and warned people to avoid public gatherings.
The police later invaded the venue of the event, and asked the event planners to vacate the premises.
But in a counter press conference at the emir’s palace, the state commissioner for Information, Abdullahi Waiya, said the blockade of the venue of the religious event was unacceptable.
Mr Waiya said that the state government was not aware of any security threat and had no reason to anticipate any disruption, maintaining that no amount of intimidation would stop the event as scheduled.
The commissioner said that any attempt to obstruct the process of organizing a lawful gathering amounts to an encroachment on the citizens’ right of lawful assembly and a breach of their fundamental right to religious practice in Nigeria.
While urging participants from across the country attending the event to remain calm, Mr Waiya urged the Federal Government to immediately withdraw its security agencies from the venue to allow the event to proceed without hindrance.
“It has, however, come to our attention with great concern that security agencies have blocked the venue designated for this highly significant religious event. This action is not necessary, and it is unjust, as there has been no report of any security threat in Kano State that would warrant such an extreme measure.
“The Kano State Government has not issued any complaints regarding insecurity, and we find the presence of security operatives at the venue of this significant religious activity unwarranted and unacceptable.
“I wish to categorically state that the National Tijjaniyya Maulud will hold as scheduled, tomorrow, Saturday, 25th January 2025, from 8:00 AM at Sani Abacha Stadium. This religious activity, which has been held for the last 39 years, shall not be obstructed,” Mr Waiya added.
