BREAKING: NDC Protests Police Cancellation of Obi-Kwankwaso March in Akwa Ibom

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Akwa Ibom State has protested the cancellation of a planned two-million-man solidarity march in Uyo for its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The march, organised by the Obidient Movement, was scheduled for October 1 as part of activities marking Nigeria’s Independence Day.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, however, directed political parties, groups and associations to reschedule rallies, meetings and processions planned for the day.

According to the police, the decision followed intelligence indicating that political activities could be exploited to cause disturbances and threaten public peace. The command also cited concerns about having sufficient personnel to provide security for large gatherings.

Organisers Claim ₦20m Loss

The State Director of the Obidient Movement, Dr Benjamin Smith, expressed disappointment over the cancellation, saying organisers had already spent more than ₦20 million mobilising supporters across the state’s 31 local government areas.

Smith claimed the police had earlier engaged the organisers regarding the proposed march before subsequently directing that the event be rescheduled.

He said the decision created significant financial losses for the organisers and vowed that the movement would communicate a new date for the event.

APC Allegation

Smith also accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of being behind the postponement.

That allegation remains a claim by the organisers, and no independent evidence establishing APC involvement was cited in the reports reviewed.

The police, meanwhile, maintained that its decision was based on security considerations, including the potential for clashes involving political activities and the command’s available manpower.

The development comes as political parties and support groups intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the cancellation drawing renewed attention to the balance between public-security concerns and political gatherings.