The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, has warned political parties and candidates against recruiting or using thugs, cult members and other criminal elements during campaigns.
Nwadiogbu gave the warning at a peace accord signing ceremony involving political party chairmen, candidates, representatives of sister security agencies and other stakeholders in Makurdi.
The gathering was aimed at promoting peaceful political activities and sustaining security across the state.
A statement issued by the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, said the commissioner urged political leaders and candidates to ensure that their supporters conducted themselves peacefully and responsibly throughout the electoral process.
The statement read in part: “Addressing the gathering, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus C. N. Nwadiogbu, psc(+), mnips, PhD, urged political leaders and candidates to ensure that their supporters conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly.
“He particularly warned against the recruitment or use of political thugs, cult groups and other criminal elements to intimidate opponents or disrupt lawful political activities.
“The Peace Accord was subsequently signed by participating political parties and candidates, signifying their collective commitment to reject political violence, respect the rights of other political actors and cooperate with security agencies in maintaining peace throughout the electoral process.
“The Commissioner assured all political parties and candidates that the Police Command would remain professional, impartial and committed to providing adequate security for all lawful political activities.
“He further urged stakeholders to maintain effective communication with the Police and other security agencies, especially with respect to planned rallies, campaigns and other major political activities.
“The Command therefore calls on all political leaders, candidates, supporters and the general public to uphold the spirit of the Peace Accord and work collectively towards peaceful and credible political activities in Benue State.”
The participating parties and candidates reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful campaigns, respect for the rule of law and the protection of lives and property during the electoral period.
