By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command today, August 1, swiftly intervened to restore calm in Nri, Anaocha Local Government Area, following a report of political unrest that ensued during a political campaign rally.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the squabble started when, at approximately 1:30 p.m., supporters of one political party allegedly pulled down three campaign billboards that belonged to another party, thereby sparking a brief but tense disturbance.
According to the Police Spokesman, both parties were immediately invited to a peace meeting coordinated by law enforcement to de-escalate tensions. He added that, despite disagreements over alleged non-payment of signage fees, the representatives reached a mutual agreement to replace the removed billboards without further conflict.
He said the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, in his reaction, urged political actors and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and within the bounds of the law.
According to the statement, the CP also directed the immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) Political Desk in Awka, adding that the parties should uphold their agreement for the quiet and peaceful resolution of the matter; otherwise, the SCID will undertake a discreet investigation.
The Police Spokesman also emphasized that this proactive response demonstrated the Command’s resolve to ensure peaceful political engagement and uphold law and order, both before, during and after the election season.
