Supporters and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and other political groups in Anambra State have been prohibited from wearing party uniforms during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to the state, scheduled for Thursday (today).

The Anambra State government announced this restriction through the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Affairs, Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, in a press statement released on Thursday.

During his visit, President Tinubu is set to host a high-level town hall meeting with key stakeholders at the newly-refurbished Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka. Party members attending the event have been specifically warned against wearing party uniforms at the venue.

In the statement, Obiogbolu explained that the directive was issued to prevent unnecessary political rivalry and public displays that could distract from the main purpose of the President’s visit. 

He said, “This is to inform you that everybody coming to Dr Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka for the reception of President Bola Tinubu tomorrow, should be in mufti.

“Please nobody should put on APGA clothes, or Support Groups uniforms.”

According to reports, the directive was deemed necessary due to reports that both APC and APGA support groups had mobilized their members to attend the event in uniform, intending to visibly showcase their support.  Sources revealed that the government’s decision was made to foster a non-partisan environment and ensure a unified reception for the President, prioritizing public order and decorum.

The sources added, “The President’s party, the APC, had raised concerns that the visit could be seen as a lack of confidence in their governorship candidate, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, particularly given its timing during an election period.” “The ban on uniforms was one of the conditions set before the President agreed to attend and all political parties, especially the APC and APGA were asked to bar their members from wearing party uniform.”

During his visit, the President is expected to inaugurate "legacy" projects, including the new state government house, Solution Fun City, and several others.