The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has cautioned political parties, support groups and other associations against holding rallies, processions or similar public events without obtaining prior clearance from the command.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, issued the warning in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, and made available to journalists on Monday in Uyo.
Azare explained that organisers of political and other public activities must formally notify the police ahead of time to allow for effective security planning and coordination.
According to him, the requirement is aimed largely at preventing possible confrontations between political parties and groups, particularly where their programmes may coincide at the same venue, along the same route, or on the same date and time.
“As well as to enable the police make adequate security arrangements, manage traffic and protect participants and members of the public,” the CP said.
He urged organisers to provide the police with timely information about their planned activities, including the date, time, venue, estimated number of participants and proposed routes where necessary.
The police commissioner stressed that the directive should not be interpreted as an attempt to restrict legitimate political activities, but rather as a measure to ensure that the rights and safety of one group do not undermine those of another.
Azare also reaffirmed the command’s neutrality in political matters, stating that it would continue to provide equal security coverage for all political parties and groups regardless of their political affiliation.
He further warned political thugs, troublemakers and others who may seek to use political gatherings as an avenue for violence or disruption to desist from such acts.
“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.
“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,” Mr Azare said.
The commissioner also appealed to political leaders to advise their supporters to act responsibly and ensure that their programmes are conducted peacefully and in coordination with the relevant security agencies.
“Akwa Ibom belongs to all of us.
Political differences must never be allowed to threaten the peace and security of the State.
“The cooperation of political parties, support groups and the general public is highly solicited,” the CP said.
