Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Joseph Mbu, on Monday placed a
ban on rallies in the state.
Mbu, who said the decision was based on the increasing political tension
in the state, specifically said the ban affected political rallies.
Before the outright ban, the CP had directed that those holding rallies
in the state should apply for permission from the police.
He also prohibited activities involving the Grassroots Development
Initiative, Save Rivers Movement, and the Rivers Leadership Advancement
Foundation.
A statement signed by the state police command’s spokesman, Mr. Ahmad
Mohammad read, “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, Save Rivers Movement, Rivers Leadership
Advancement Foundation and whatever other names, are hereby banned.”
Mbu warned that the police would not provide security for any
group that henceforth organise rallies.
The CP, however, said that party membership registration would only be
allowed based on the provisions of the Electoral Act and regulations of the
Independent National Electoral Commission.
“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 police statement added.