By Abdullahi Inuwa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has issued a stern warning to political parties, support groups and other organisations planning rallies, processions and large political gatherings across the state, insisting that prior notification to the police is mandatory.
The Command said the measure is aimed at preventing clashes, political violence and disruption of public order as political activities intensify in the state.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, on Monday, the Command urged organisers of political events to notify the police sufficiently ahead of time, providing details of the proposed date, time, venue, expected crowd and routes for processions.
According to the police, early notification would allow security agencies to properly coordinate arrangements, control traffic and protect participants, residents and other members of the public.
The Command explained that the directive was not intended to restrict legitimate political activities or frustrate any political party, but rather to ensure that competing groups do not unknowingly organise events at the same location, along the same route or at overlapping times.
CP Azare stressed that the police would remain neutral and provide equal security protection to all political parties and support groups, regardless of their political affiliation.
He, however, warned individuals who may attempt to exploit political gatherings to cause trouble to stay away from such activities.
The Commissioner said the police would take decisive action against anyone found engaging in thuggery, carrying offensive weapons, intimidating political opponents, destroying property, unlawfully obstructing roads or provoking rival groups.
He added that anyone whose actions threaten public peace or could trigger a breakdown of law and order would face lawful consequences.
To strengthen security around political activities, the Commissioner has directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders across the state to step up intelligence gathering and maintain adequate security at political events and other major public gatherings.
The police also appealed to political leaders to take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters by ensuring that rallies and other activities are peaceful and properly coordinated with security authorities.
The Command emphasised that the peace of Akwa Ibom must not be sacrificed for political differences, urging all stakeholders to place the safety and security of residents above partisan interests.
“Akwa Ibom State belongs to all of us,” the Command said, calling for the cooperation of political parties, support groups and members of the public in maintaining peace across the state.
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