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The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has warned political parties against unauthorised rallies, clashes and thuggery during electioneering campaigns across the state.
The command also requested that all political parties notify it in writing before holding rallies and campaigns to forestall any breakdown of law and order during the campaign period.
A statement signed by the Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) and made available to journalists in Uyo stated that the warning was aimed at preventing clashes and violence between political parties and other groups whose activities might be planned for the same time and venue.
The statement read in part:
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command wishes to remind all political parties, political support groups, associations and other organised bodies intending to hold rallies, processions, campaigns, meetings or any other large public political gathering within the State to formally notify the Police Command well ahead of such activities for proper security coordination.
“The essence of this directive is 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.”
The PPRO advised political party campaign organisers to communicate with the command ahead of their campaign schedules by clearly indicating the date, time, venue, expected number of participants and proposed routes to facilitate effective traffic management.
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The PPRO also stated that the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Baba Azare, had emphasised 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 did not interfere with the rights, safety and activities of others.
The PPRO said the command remained committed to impartiality and would provide a level playing field for all political parties and groups, irrespective of affiliation, during campaigns for the 2027 election.
“However, the Command strongly warns 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.”
The PPRO charged Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders across the state to intensify intelligence gathering and maintain adequate security around political activities and other public gatherings.
“The Command therefore calls on political leaders to caution their supporters and demonstrate responsibility by ensuring that their activities are peaceful and properly coordinated with relevant security authorities.”
