Police Warn Political Parties Against Violence in Nasarawa

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Nasarawa State Police command has warned political parties in the state to desist from acts that will undermine peace, and threat to safety of lives and property

The Commissioner of police, Mohammed Jauro Shetima read the riot act at a meeting with political parties in Lafia.

The meeting, which was convened against the backdrop of increasing political activities in the State, focused on the need for political actors and their supporters to conduct their campaigns, rallies and other political engagements peacefully and in accordance with the law.

CP Shetima warns all political parties to prevail on their supporters to desist from congregating at night, particularly along major highways, as such gatherings could obstruct traffic, create unnecessary tension and provide opportunities for confrontation between supporters of opposing political parties.

The Statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer SP. Ramhan Nansel adds that the Commissioner further directs the political parties to notify the Police Command ahead of all political rallies, processions and other major gatherings to enable the Command to make adequate security arrangements and prevent possible clashes or breakdown of law and order.

He stresses the need for political actors to avoid campaign of calumny, hate speech, inflammatory statements and other forms of provocative rhetoric and actions capable of heightening political tension.

The CP assures the political parties that the Police Command would remain neutral, professional and committed to providing a level playing field for all political parties

In their responses, leaders of political parties express gratitude to the Commissioner of police for the meeting and promise to strengthen their commitment to peace, law and order in all their political activities.