Perpetrators of political violence will be punished, says Ahmed

Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed yesterday said the full weight of the law will be brought to bear on perpetrators of the violence the state witnessed recently.

The governor said his administration would not allow the state to slide into the dark era of fear and violence.

Ahmed spoke in Ilorin, the state capital, in a state-wide radio broadcast.

He said: “As an additional security measure, political street rallies and processions are hereby banned across the state. Only political rallies in designated areas and with prior notification to the police command will be allowed henceforth.

“No individual, group or political party will be allowed to disrupt the harmony that defines us as a people.

“As you are aware, political campaigns have commenced ahead of the general elections. In keeping with the tradition in our state, these campaigns were expected to be robust but peaceful.

“Unfortunately, what we have witnessed instead is an increasing resort to criminality as a result of heightened political activities, with a consequent threat to law and order.

“Anyone found to have either contributed to the recent violence or apprehended for involvement will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, no matter their status, background or political affiliation.

“Kwara State’s peace, security and harmony cannot and will not be sacrificed for the ambition of any individual or political party.

“Yesterday (Monday), I chaired an emergency state Security Council meeting and charged the police and other security agencies to deploy all lawful measures to secure lives and property in the state.

“Following assurances by the security agencies, I urge all our people to go about their lawful activities without fear for their safety. Our security agencies are capable and ready to forestall any further recurrence of such ugly incident.

“As your governor, I assure you that no effort will be spared by my government to protect the lives and property of all law-abiding residents of the state.

“I also urge you to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, movements and developments to security agencies for prompt action.

“In this regard, I have approved the establishment of a Joint Military Task Force comprising the police, Army, Navy, Air Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Civil Defence and the National Drug law enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

“This body is tasked with providing an extra layer of security and preventing a recurrence of the political violence witnessed in the last couple of days.

“The state police command is hereby authorised to ensure full compliance.

“Political parties and their supporters are also charged to campaign and solicit votes in a lawful manner and refrain from deploying divisive and inciting rhetoric or instigating violence against real or perceived opponents. Thuggery, vandalism, intimidation and other forms of criminality will neither be allowed no condoned in any part of the state.

“Those who aspire to political leadership must conduct themselves in a peaceful and lawful manner while prioritising the safety of those they seek to lead.

“I urge you to remain calm as your security and safety will continue to be protected and guaranteed by the security agencies. Please, be assured that all constitutional means will be deployed for your safety before, during and after the forthcoming elections.”