The Kano State Government has rejected the security alarm raised by the police in the state describing it as an attempt by federal security operatives to disrupt an annual religious gathering in the state.

This is coming shortly after an announcement by the Kano State Police Command, stating that it had received intelligence reports about suspected terrorists planning to attack public gatherings in key locations across the state. 

Speaking with journalists at the Emir’s Palace on Friday evening, the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, criticized the actions of security agencies, accusing them of blocking the venue for the National Tijjaniyya Maulud, a religious event that has been held annually for over 39 years. 

“Kano State, as a historical center of Islamic scholarship and religious harmony, remains committed to upholding and supporting activities that promote peace, unity, and spiritual growth.” 

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Waiya expressed deep concern over the alleged actions of security operatives, stating: “This action is not only unnecessary but also unjustified, as there has been no report of any security threat in Kano State that would warrant such an extreme measure. The presence of security operatives at the venue of this significant religious activity is unwarranted and unacceptable.” 

The commissioner emphasized that the Maulud event would proceed as scheduled on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Kofar Mata Stadium, and assured attendees that the state government would not allow any disruption. 

“The National Tijjaniyya Maulud will hold as planned from 8:00 AM at Kofar Mata Stadium. This religious gathering is organized by a legitimately registered and recognized body, and any attempt to obstruct it would be a violation of the citizens’ right to lawful assembly and religious practice in Nigeria,” Waiya declared. 

The commissioner urged the Federal Government to withdraw its security agencies from the venue immediately, stressing that Kofar Mata Stadium is a property of the Kano State Government. “There is no justification for any external force to obstruct a legitimate religious gathering,” he added. 

He reassured participants and guests of the state’s commitment to ensuring the event’s success while maintaining peace and order. “Kano State has always been a beacon of peace and religious tolerance, and we will not accept any form of intimidation or undue interference in our internal affairs,” he said. 

The commissioner concluded by urging guests and attendees to remain calm, law-abiding, and steadfast in their commitment to the peaceful observance of the annual gathering. 

The alleged actions by federal security operatives have sparked debates about the balance between security measures and religious freedoms in the country.