The Kano State Police Command has reversed its earlier stance on blocking the National Tijjaniyya Maulud, following strong opposition from the Kano State Government.
The Maulud, an annual religious gathering set to take place today at the Sani Abacha Stadium, will go ahead as planned despite initial concerns raised by the police regarding security threats.
Earlier, the police had issued a warning based on intelligence reports suggesting a potential terrorist threat to public gatherings in key locations across the state. In response, officers were deployed to the stadium to monitor the situation.
However, the Kano State Government quickly condemned the police’s actions, accusing the force of trying to disrupt a peaceful event that has been held for 39 years without incident.
Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, called the police’s move “unnecessary” and “unjustified,” urging the Federal Government to ensure that the event could proceed without interference.
In a statement released Saturday morning, Police Command spokesperson Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa clarified that the police’s actions were motivated by the need to ensure safety and order during the event.
He also warned the public about potential criminal activities, such as individuals attempting to set up phone charging stations with the intent to steal mobile devices.
Despite the brief standoff, the Maulud is set to proceed with large crowds already gathering at the venue. Authorities are focused on maintaining security as the event unfolds.
