Nasarawa CP urges political parties to shun night gatherings, highway blockades

The Nasarawa State Police Command is urging political parties and their supporters to abandon night gatherings and highway blockades during the intense political activities leading up to the 2027 general elections. Commissioner of Police Shetima Jauro Mohammed reiterated this call during a meeting with leaders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Social Democratic Party, SDP, and other state political parties.

The meeting aimed to prevent confrontations and ensure peaceful campaigning, according to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel.

CP Shetima warned against nighttime gatherings, particularly along major highways, as they can obstruct traffic, heighten tensions, and provide opportunities for physical confrontations between supporters of opposing parties. He emphasized that political differences should not lead to violence and that elections must be conducted without bloodshed.

The police commissioner also directed political parties to provide advance notice of rallies and other major gatherings to the Police Command to facilitate adequate security preparations and prevent potential clashes. He cautioned against the use of calumny, hate speech, inflammatory statements, and other provocative rhetoric that could exacerbate political tensions. Shetima stressed that supporters should focus on addressing people's concerns through issues, programs, and policies rather than engaging in rivalry.

Party leaders were urged to take responsibility for their supporters' behavior and continuously educate them on respecting others' rights and political interests. The police assured that they would remain neutral and committed to providing a level playing field for all parties, while also warning that violators of the law during political activities would face legal consequences.

Reactions from state political party chairmen were positive, with the SDP State Chairman praising the meeting's timeliness and necessity for maintaining peace amid rising political activities. Similarly, the APC State Chairman commended the police for the initiative and pledged to adhere to the rules of peace, law, and order during their political engagements. Both parties assured the police command of their commitment to upholding law and order during the electoral process.