.jpeg "Police begin looking into political disputes and violence in Kogi")
According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the intervention of the Police was prompted by an alleged incident of violence during the SDP Campaign train at Koton-Karfe, resulting in injuries to several individuals.
In a press release published in Lokoja by SP Williams Ovye-Aya, the spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, Onuoha Bethrand, the Commissioner of Police, emphasized the zero-tolerance policy of the police towards any form of unlawful behavior inside the state.
The concerned commissioner instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), to initiate a comprehensive and meticulous investigation into all instances of political violence, allegations, and counter-allegations involving various political parties and individuals, with the objective of holding all perpetrators accountable.
Bethrand expressed strong disapproval towards certain politicians who rely on violence as a means of achieving their goals, and who have undertaken the responsibility of instigating chaos and escalating tensions inside the state by their reckless statements and uncontrolled actions.
I hereby issue a firm warning to all political parties in the state and their respective supporters, urging them to adhere to the established regulations and refrain from exacerbating tensions within the state. Failure to comply may result in significant penalties being imposed.
It is imperative that all individuals refrain from engaging in any acts of violence, as anybody found responsible for disturbing the current condition of peace within the region will be subject to the full extent of legal consequences.
Given the imminent approach of the Governorship election, we earnestly implore all political participants to prioritize the pursuit of peace by conducting themselves in a manner that promotes peaceful coexistence. It is crucial that they refrain from engaging in any actions that may disrupt the prevailing peace, tranquillity, and unity of Kogi.
Hence, in conclusion, I would like to provide a final caution to potential instigators, urging them to reconsider their actions and refrain from engaging in acts of intolerance. It is important to note that the Police force remains resolute in its commitment to take firm action against individuals who persist in obstructing the pursuit of peace within the state.
The police chief also provided assurance of the Command's steadfast dedication to safeguarding all lives and property within the state prior to, during, and subsequent to the gubernatorial election scheduled for November 11th.
The author, however, ascribed certain crises or acts of violence to the lack of participation by many political actors in various stakeholder meetings and interactions. These gatherings serve as platforms for discussing matters related to security and the proper conduct of political activities, as outlined in the Electoral Act.
Once again, it is worth noting that not all Chairmen and Candidates from other Political Parties demonstrate a willingness to comply with Police Invitations in order to engage in discussions regarding petitions, allegations, and other pertinent matters related to peaceful campaigns, as well as the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security.
It should be noted that multiple invitations were given to the candidates from the SDP and ADC parties, inviting them to engage in discussions and consultations with the police. The purpose of these interactions was to obtain further insight, receive clarifications, and allow the candidates an opportunity to present their perspectives regarding the petitions filed against them. Unfortunately, these invitations were not accepted or responded to.
While the aforementioned parties have been cooperating with the police in their endeavors, the candidate from the SDP has consistently and adamantly declined to comply with any police requests for investigation or notify either myself or the command prior to engaging in political rallies, thereby hindering the police's ability to provide sufficient security coverage.
The SDP candidate's decision to abstain from engaging with law enforcement authorities is having a detrimental impact on the maintenance of peace within the State, and is hindering endeavors to establish a more organized and controlled political environment.
The aforementioned factor has significantly contributed to the current prevalence of political violence in the State. The individual's propensity for assertive and confrontational behavior, as well as their involvement in political tactics characterized by recklessness and lawlessness, is a detrimental force that does not provide any positive outcomes, as observed by the speaker.
The police commissioner, nonetheless, conveyed his condolences to the victims of the recent Koton Karfe political violence that occurred on Friday, resulting in injuries to several individuals.