RismadarVoice Reporters, August 31, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Police Command has directed political parties, support groups and other organisations intending to hold political rallies, processions and other large public gatherings in the state to notify the Police ahead of such activities.
Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, said the directive was aimed at ensuring proper security coordination and preventing clashes between political groups.
In a statement, the Command said organisers of political activities were expected to provide the police with details of the date, time, venue, expected number of participants and proposed routes where applicable.
The police said prior notification would enable security operatives to make adequate arrangements, manage traffic, protect participants and prevent clashes that could arise when activities by different groups are scheduled for the same venue, route or time.
CP Azare stressed that the measure was not intended to prevent or frustrate lawful political activities but to ensure that the rights and safety of one group did not interfere with those of others.
He assured political parties and groups of the Command’s impartiality and commitment to providing a level playing field for all, irrespective of political affiliation.
The Commissioner, however, warned political thugs and other persons planning to exploit political gatherings to cause violence or disrupt public peace to desist.
He said the police would take firm action against anyone found engaging in thuggery, carrying offensive weapons, intimidating political opponents, destroying property, unlawfully blocking roads or committing acts capable of causing a breakdown of law and order.
The Command said Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders across the state had been directed to intensify intelligence gathering and provide adequate security around political activities and other public gatherings.
The police also called on political leaders to caution their supporters and ensure that all political activities in the state remained peaceful.
CP Azare maintained that political differences must not be allowed to threaten the peace and security of Akwa Ibom State.
