Police Denies Alleged Political Bias In Cross River, Clears The Air

By Kelvin Ololo

The Cross River State Police Command has dismissed allegations of political intimidation against its Area Commander in Ogoja, describing the claims as unfounded and inconsistent.

In a press statement issued in Calabar, and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, the Command clarified that its actions were strictly aimed at maintaining public safety and preventing tension during political activities in Ogoja Local Government Area.

According to the statement, a defection rally organized by a former Vice Chairman of Ogoja LGA, Mr. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, was fixed for the same date and venue as the All Progressives Congress (APC) Local Government Congress election. The Command said police authorities advised the rally organizers to reschedule the event to avoid possible clashes and tension, given the coincidence in time and location.

However, the organizers reportedly insisted on proceeding with the rally as planned.

The police explained that during the rally, participants blocked a major highway, disrupting movement and posing a threat to public order. In response, officers deployed smoke canisters to disperse the crowd and restore normalcy.

The Command confirmed that eleven persons were arrested in connection with the incident but were granted bail the same day.

It further stated that the Area Commander acted under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, emphasizing that the intervention was solely to safeguard lives and property, as well as ensure peaceful political engagement.

Reaffirming its position, the Command maintained that the Nigeria Police Force remains neutral in political matters and is committed to enforcing the law without bias, while protecting the rights of all citizens regardless of political affiliation.