Police Investigate, Warn Against Alleged Disruption Of Political Gatherings, Violence In Enugu
The Police Command in Enugu State has commenced investigation into alleged disruption of political gatherings, while warning it would never tolerate any act of political violence in the state.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe, on behalf of the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Mamman Giwa, on Sunday in Enugu.
The commissioner directed the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to thoroughly investigate two separate incidents of alleged disruption of political gatherings in Nkanu West Local Government Area on Sept. 12, and ensure perpetrators are brought to book.
The state police boss reiterated the position he conveyed during his meeting with leaders of political parties in the state that all political activities must be conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law.
The commissioner stressed that electoral offences remained punishable under the law.
He warned political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders against violence, intimidation, destruction of property or any conduct capable of disrupting public peace and the electoral process.
The commissioner urged political parties and stakeholders to promptly notify the police of their campaigns, meetings, rallies and other gatherings to facilitate appropriate security arrangements.
“The command will continue to maintain a peaceful and secure environment for lawful political activities and deal decisively with anyone who violates the law,” he warned.
It would be recalled that the first incident occurred at the Ndiuno-Obuoffia community, where it was alleged that armed hoodlums disrupted Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ward meeting with sporadic shooting and injured two attendees.
The second occurred at St. Joseph Primary School, Agbani, where hoodlums also allegedly destroyed canopies and chairs prepared for a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rally.
Police operatives were promptly deployed to both scenes upon receipt of the reports to prevent further breaches and track down the fleeing suspects, notwithstanding no prior notification or request for police security coverage for either gathering.