The Cross River Police Command has revealed how it successfully averted a potential clash between the supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, and those of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Calabar.
DAILY POST reports that NDC supporters in Cross River had, on Wednesday morning, gathered in front of the Metropolitan Hotel, the venue of the NDC presidential town hall meeting, where its Presidential Candidate, Mr Peter Obi, was expected.
Meanwhile, the APC supporters were on a road walk towards the Governor’s Office when they encountered the NDC supporters, who had converged outside the hotel.
The atmosphere suddenly became charged when the APC supporters eventually made a stop in front of the hotel, raising fears of a possible confrontation.
However, police officers deployed to the venue to maintain peace and security in the area promptly intervened, engaged the two groups, and prevented the situation from degenerating.
The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the development and quick intervention of the police in an interview with NAN.
Eitokpah said, “The command, through timely intervention and constructive engagement, averted a possible confrontation between participants at the town hall meeting and the APC supporters.
“Upon the convergence of both groups in front of the hotel, police officers promptly engaged them, appealing to all the parties to exercise restraint, maintain the peace and ensure that their activities were conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law.”
He further said the intervention was aimed at ensuring public safety and preventing a breakdown of law and order.
The police spokesman urged all the political parties, supporters, and other stakeholders to conduct their activities peacefully and respect the rights of others, irrespective of their political affiliations.