Rivers Police Ban Political Rallies In The State

The Rivers State Police Command Monday February 3rd 2014 announced a ban on all political rallies in the state, saying the measure came as a result of increasing political tension in the state.

The police command spokesman, Ahmad K. Muhammad, in a statement in Port Harcourt said all public activities involving rallies of any kind would not be allowed to take place.
Muhammad said: “The Rivers State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that as a result of increasing political tension in the state, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command, has banned all political rallies in the state under whatever coloration or name.


“Accordingly, all public activities involving rallies of Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI), Save Rivers Movement (SRM), Rivers Leadership Advancement Foundation (RIVLEAF) and whatever other names, are hereby banned.

“Rivers State Police Command will not, I repeat, will not provide security for any group in whatever guise. Party membership drive is allowed strictly as stipulated in Electoral Act 2010 as amended and INEC regulations, please.”

The ban on rallies follows several clashes between the police and supporters of Governor Rotimi Amaechi. The police were accused of bias, allowing the Nyesom Wike-backed GDI to hold rallies while stopping the groups supporting Amaechi.

(via The Trent)