BENUE POLICE SEEK PEACEFUL CAMPAIGNS AS PARTIES SIGN ACCORD

The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, has warned political parties and candidates against recruiting thugs, cult members and other criminal elements during campaigns and other political activities in the state. He gave the warning on Wednesday during a peace accord signing ceremony held at the state police headquarters in Makurdi, where he met with political party chairmen, candidates, representatives of sister security agencies and other stakeholders.

The commissioner urged politicians and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly throughout the electoral process. Nwadiogbu specifically cautioned against using political thugs and cult groups to intimidate opponents, disrupt lawful activities or create tension during campaigns. He said the peace accord was intended to promote peaceful political activities and sustain security across Benue State.

According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, the participating political parties and candidates signed the accord as a commitment to reject political violence, respect the rights of other political actors and cooperate with security agencies. The agreement also seeks to encourage stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and ensure that political activities are conducted without threats or intimidation.

Nwadiogbu assured political parties and candidates that the police command would remain professional and impartial while providing adequate security for all lawful political activities. He also urged political stakeholders to maintain effective communication with the police and other security agencies, particularly when planning rallies, campaigns and other major political events across the state.

The police command called on political leaders, candidates, supporters and members of the public to uphold the spirit of the peace accord and work together to ensure peaceful and credible political activities. The stakeholders also reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful campaigns, respect for the rule of law and the protection of lives and property throughout the electoral period.