Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Joseph Mbu, on Monday placed a ban on rallies in the state.
Mbu, who said the decision was based on
the increasing political tension in the state, specifically said the ban
affected political rallies.
Before the outright ban, the CP had
directed that those holding rallies in the state should apply for
permission from the police.
He also prohibited activities involving
the Grassroots Development Initiative, Save Rivers Movement, and the
Rivers Leadership Advancement Foundation.
A statement signed by the state police
command’s spokesman, Mr. Ahmad Mohammad read, “The Rivers State Police
Command wishes to inform members of the public that as a result of
increasing political tension in the state, the Commissioner of Police,
Rivers State Police Command, has banned all political rallies in the
state under whatever coloration or name.
“Accordingly, all public activities
involving rallies of Grassroots Development Initiative, Save Rivers
Movement, Rivers Leadership Advancement Foundation and whatever other
names, are hereby banned.”
Mbu warned that the police would not provide security for any group that henceforth organise rallies.
The CP, however, said that party
membership registration would only be allowed based on the provisions of
the Electoral Act and regulations of the Independent National Electoral
Commission.
“Rivers State Police Command will not, I
repeat, will not provide security for any group in whatever guise.
Party membership drive is allowed strictly as stipulated in Electoral
Act 2010 as amended and INEC regulations, please,” the police statement
added.
PUNCH NG
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