Kwara Violence: Ahmed Places Ban On Political Rallies And Processions

In the wake of Political tension and violence in Kwara State in recent times, the governor of the state, Abdulfatah Ahmed, has place a ban on rallies and processions in the state.

The government promised that those behind the attacks and violence will be brought to book in no time.

The governor, who made this known during a state wide radio broadcast, stated that he will not watch while the state slide back into days of violence and fear.

He said: “As an additional security measure, political street rallies and processions are hereby banned across the state.

“Only political rallies in designated areas and with prior notification to the state police command will be allowed henceforth.

“No individual, group or political party will be allowed to disrupt the harmony that defines us as a people.

“As you are aware, political campaigns have commenced ahead of the general elections.

“In keeping with the tradition in our state, these campaigns were expected to be robust but peaceful.

“Unfortunately, what we have witnessed instead is an increasing resort to criminality as a result of heightened political activities, with a consequent threat to law and order.

“Anyone found to have either contributed to the recent violence or apprehended for involvement will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, no matter their status, background or political affiliation.”

The governor assured that the status of harmony with which the state is known will not be destroyed by anybody with political ambition.

“Yesterday, I chaired an emergency state security council meeting and charged the police and other security agencies to deploy all lawful measures to secure lives and property in the state.

“Following assurances by these security agencies, I urge all our people to go about their lawful activities without fear for their safety.

“Our security agencies are capable and ready to forestall any further recurrence of such ugly incident.

“As your governor, I assure you that no effort will be spared by my government to protect the lives and property of all law-abiding residents of the state.

He admonished the people of the state to remain calm and vigilant as they wait to carry out their civil responsibility next month.

He advised politicians to shun any form of violence or the employment of thugs to carry out their evil act, as the state will no longer condole any form of unlawful activities.

“In this regard, I have approved the establishment of a Joint Military Task Force comprising the police, army, navy, airforce, Department Of State Security, Civil Defence and the National Drug law enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

“This body is tasked with providing an extra layer of security and preventing a recurrence of the political violence witnessed in the last couple of days.

‘The state police command is hereby authorized to ensure full compliance.

“Political parties and their supporters are also charged to campaign and solicit votes in a lawful manner and refrain from deploying divisive and inciting rhetoric or instigating violence against real or perceived opponents.

“Thuggery, vandalism, intimidation and other forms of criminality will neither be allowed no condoned in any part of the state.

“Those who aspire to political leadership must conduct themselves in peaceful and lawful manner while prioritizing the safety of those they seek to lead.

“I urge you to remain calm as your security and safety will continue to be protected and guaranteed by the security agencies.”

Naija News recalls that the governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Mr. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reported escaped death after he was attacked during the party rally in the state.