The Kaduna State chapter of the Obidient Movement has cancelled its planned “Freedom Walk & Fuel Relief Programme” to mark the 64th birthday of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The announcement was made on Saturday by the state coordinator, Yusuf Danbaki, through a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) by Deputy Coordinator, Prof. Danjuma Sale (@neurodrdan). The group cited security concerns and the need to maintain peace and order as the reason for suspending the event, which had been scheduled for Saturday, July 19.
According to the statement, Danbaki was contacted by security agencies—including the police and the Department of State Services (DSS)—while in Abuja, and was advised to consider the safety risks and potential hijacking of the event by “hoodlums.”
Upon his return to Kaduna, Danbaki and other members of the organising committee—Prof. Danjuma Sale, Daniel Ejembi, Prince Natty Auta, Evans Obi, and Ezekiel Chikwuemeka (Concern)—were summoned to Sabo Police Station for an extensive meeting with top security officials, including the state Commissioner of Police and the Director of the DSS.
Security agencies reportedly described the celebration as an unauthorised political gathering, particularly sensitive given that political primaries for upcoming by-elections were scheduled for the same day. They warned the event could disrupt public order and infringe on the rights of other citizens.
The organisers argued they had no political motive and were simply engaging in voluntary charity and peaceful celebration. They offered to scale back the event by replacing the walk with visits to hospitals, prisons, and IDP camps—suggestions that were also declined by security officials for lack of prior approval.
With no consensus reached, the Obidient Movement decided to suspend the programme.
“Considering the interest of our principal and the need to preserve peace in Kaduna on this important day, we have decided to suspend the programme,” Danbaki stated.
The group urged its supporters to remain indoors, pray for Obi, and reflect on the country’s future. They also suggested that the clampdown was linked to Obi’s rising popularity and efforts to suppress opposition voices.
Earlier, the Kaduna State Police Command had officially warned against the planned rally and threatened legal action against any individual or group that defied the directive.
