UYO-The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has remind all political parties intending to hold campaigns to formally notify it ahead for proper security coordination.
These include political support groups, associations and other organised bodies preparing to hold rallies, processions, campaigns, meetings or any other large public political gathering within the state
The Commissioner of Police ,CC Baba Azare in a statement signed by him, said the essence of the directive was primarily to prevent clashes between political parties or groups whose activities may inadvertently be scheduled for the same venue, route, date or time, as well as to enable the Police make adequate security arrangements, manage traffic and protect participants and members of the public.
Accordingly, “organisers are expected to communicate with the Police sufficiently in advance, clearly stating the date, time, venue, expected number of participants and proposed routes, where applicable,” Azare stated.
Azare emphasized that the measure was not designed to prevent or frustrate lawful political activities, but to ensure that the rights of one political party or group do not interfere with the rights, safety and activities of others.
He assured that the Command remains committed to impartiality and will provide a level playing field for all political parties and groups, irrespective of affiliation.
Azare strongly warned political thugs, troublemakers and persons intending to exploit political gatherings to cause violence or disturb the peace to desist immediately.
“The Police will not hesitate to take firm and lawful action against any individual or group found fomenting trouble, engaging in thuggery, carrying offensive weapons, intimidating opponents, destroying property, blocking public roads unlawfully, provoking rival groups or committing any act capable of causing a breakdown of law and order,” he cautioned,
He hinted that already, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders across the state have been directed to intensify intelligence gathering and maintain adequate security around political activities and other public gatherings.
“The Command, therefore, called on political leaders to caution their supporters and demonstrate responsibility by ensuring that their activities are peaceful and properly coordinated with relevant security authorities,” the Police Commissioner advised.
He stressed that Akwa Ibom State belongs to all , hence political differences must never be allowed to threaten the peace and security of the state.