Based on  the ban on  all forms of political gatherings  at the nation’s airports, the Officers of Kwara State Police Command yesterday dispersed supporters of former governor Bukola Saraki at Ilorin International Airport, Weekly Trust has learnt.

The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar had on Wednesday banned all political, socio-cultural, and religious gatherings within and around the country’s airport premises; including tarmacs, lounges, and other sensitive security points.

A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, said the ban was part of efforts towards averting any security breach and the need to protect critical infrastructure, travelers, aircrews, airport staff and personnel at the nation’s local and international airports.

Acting on this directive, the Police in Kwara State, it was gathered, prevented supporters of Saraki, a Senator representing Kwara Central in the National Assembly and leader of  the new Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state  from entering the airport.

The supporters, who usually thronged to  the airport to receive Saraki anytime he was returning to Ilorin from Abuja or overseas as the case may be,  were prevented from gaining access to the airport.

The State Police Commissioner, Mr. Agboola Oshodi-Glover was reportedly on ground to implement the IG’s order. It was gathered that local Musicians including Pele, Igi Jegede, among others, who usually  entertain the audience during such  political gatherings in the state also stormed the airport to receive Saraki who arrived around 1 pm. But they were dislodged from the airport.

A source who was at the airport claimed ,   the supporters had to comply with the order when the Policemen at the airport threatened to fire teargas canisters as they moved away from the Airport’s precincts.