Ahead the 2015 general elections, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5, Benin City, Hashimu Argungu, on Monday, met with leaders of political parties in Edo State, warning that the police would not hesitate to disrupt any political rally held without permit.
He also warned that any police officer involved in any election duty outside his or her operational order would be dealt with.
The AIG stated this in the Edo State capital, in company with the Edo State Police Commissioner, Folunso Adebanjo, during a meeting held with party leaders.
The All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party, were represented at the meeting.
Argungu said he decided to call the meeting to inform politicians on the need to play according to the rules in order to avoid anarchy in the state.
The police chief said though the 1999 Constitution guaranteed freedom of association and assembly, the provisions of the Public Act Laws of 2004, as well as the Electoral Act 2004, as amended, regulated conduct of rallies, processions and assemblies.
He said, “For the purpose of proper and peaceful conduct of public assemblies, meetings, any person desirous of convening or conducting such meetings or rallies is required to apply for and obtain permit.
In the same vein, where such license is granted, section 2 of the said act confers on the police, power to stop such assemblies, rallies, meetings where they violate any condition of the licence.
“Where no licence or permit is obtained, the police by virtue of this same section are empowered to stop such rallies, meetings etc.”
Reiterating the commitment of the police to peaceful atmosphere for the enhancement of democracy, the AIG said, “There will always be a level playing field for all citizens who are desirous of engaging in gatherings or rallies. Politicians must therefore play their own role so as to ensure public safety in the state.”
Responding, Publicity Secretary, APC, Edo State, Godwin Erhahon, Christopher Adesotu of PDP and others, commended the police for initiating the meeting and promised that their members would be briefed accordingly
Source: Punch
