The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has warned political parties and their supporters against violence and thuggery ahead of political activities in the State and directed all groups to notify the command ahead of rallies, processions or campaigns.
The Command said on Monday that all political parties, support groups, associations and other organised bodies intending to hold rallies, processions, campaigns, meetings or any other large public political gathering must formally notify the Police well ahead of such events, to allow for proper security coordination. The Command explained that the directive is aimed at preventing clashes between parties or groups, whose events may be inadvertently scheduled for the same venue, route, date or time.
The Police said it would also enable them to make adequate security arrangements, manage traffic and protect participants and the public. It said organisers are expected to notify the Police in advance, stating the date, time, venue, expected number of participants and proposed routes, where applicable.
Baba Mohamed Azare, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, said the measure was not intended to obstruct lawful political activities, but to ensure that the rights of one party or group do not interfere with the rights, safety and activities of others. He assured that the Command remains committed to impartiality and would provide a level playing field for all political parties, irrespective of affiliation.
Azare, however, warned political thugs, troublemakers and anyone seeking to exploit political gatherings to cause violence or disturb the peace to desist immediately. He stressed that the Police would not hesitate to take firm and lawful action against anyone found fomenting trouble, engaging in thuggery, carrying offensive weapons, intimidating opponents, destroying property, unlawfully blocking public roads, provoking rival groups, or committing any act capable of causing a breakdown of law and order.