As Nasarawa State residents anticipate the Court of Appeal’s verdict on the March 18 governorship election in the upcoming days, the state police command has cautioned the public against engaging in violence during and after the judgment, emphasizing that those involved may face arrest and prosecution.
During a press conference in Lafia on Monday, the Acting Commissioner of Police, Shetima Mohammed, issued a warning.
He stated that the command had deployed officers across the 13 local government areas of the state to uphold law and order during and after the Court of Appeal’s judgment.
Mohammed urged political parties in the state to advise their supporters against participating in any acts of violence. He emphasized that anyone apprehended for causing disturbances in the state would be subjected to the full force of the law.
He said, “The state police command in collaboration with the military and other security agencies have made security arrangements to ensure law and order before, during, and after the appeal court judgment.”
“Security personnel have been adequately deployed to strategic locations in the state to maintain peace. I hereby call on leaders of all political parties to prevail on their supporters to shun unguarded utterances that may trigger political tension or engage in mass action that may be seen as preparation for violent procession.”
“They should also celebrate moderately without infringing on the fundamental rights of members of the public as anyone or group that tries to disrupt the peace and cause breakdown of law and order shall face the full wrath of the Law.”
“While assuring the good people of Nasarawa State of our commitment to providing adequate security, the citizens are encouraged to avoid any act of omission or commission that may lead to chaos or disrupt the peace of the state.”