Obidient Movement Halts Peter Obi Birthday Rally in Kaduna Citing Security Warnings

The Kaduna State chapter of the Obidient Movement has announced the suspension of a planned rally and fuel relief programme in honour of Peter Obi’s 64th birthday, citing concerns raised by security agencies. The event, titled “Freedom Walk & Fuel Relief Programme,” was originally scheduled for Saturday, July 19, 2025.

According to iReporter Online, the decision followed a series of meetings between the organisers and top security officials, including representatives from the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), who expressed apprehension about potential threats to public safety if the event proceeded.

The movement’s state coordinator, Yusuf Danbaki, alongside other key members of the planning committee, had been invited to Sabo Police Station upon his return from Abuja. This engagement was followed by a closed-door session with the State Police Commissioner and the Director of the DSS, both of whom reportedly emphasized the sensitive timing of the event, especially as political primaries for forthcoming by-elections were taking place the same day.

Security officials warned that the public rally could be misconstrued as an unauthorised political gathering and might be hijacked by disruptive elements. Despite assurances from the organisers that the gathering was intended to be peaceful and strictly humanitarian, security agencies maintained that the risk was too high, particularly due to the lack of official prior notice.

In a bid to find common ground, the Obidient Movement offered to restructure the programme into less public-facing activities such as visiting hospitals, internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, and correctional facilities. However, this proposal was also turned down by authorities who argued that the revised version still posed a potential threat to order.

Faced with these realities, the movement ultimately decided to cancel the celebration altogether. In a statement issued on behalf of the group, Professor Danjuma Sale, the deputy coordinator, quoted Danbaki as saying the decision was made “in the interest of peace and to uphold the values of our principal.” He urged members across Kaduna to remain calm, offer prayers for Peter Obi, and continue to support peaceful civic engagement.

The group reiterated its commitment to nonviolence, emphasizing that the priority remains national unity and social harmony. According to iReporter Online, the organisers believe this development is a reflection of rising political awareness and the growing popularity of their cause, but insisted that peace and stability must remain the cornerstone of all their actions.

Furthermore, the Obidient Movement clarified that while the event was intended as a celebration and show of support, it will continue to explore lawful avenues for civic expression. According to iReporter Online, the group remains undeterred in its mission to foster hope and humanitarian goodwill in the Nigerian political space.