The Nasarawa Police Command has issued a stern warning to political parties and their supporters, urging them to refrain from any form of violence in anticipation of the Court of Appeal judgment on the state’s governorship election. The acting Commissioner of Police in the state, DCP Shettima Muhammad, conveyed this cautionary message during a press conference held in Lafia on Monday.

In a bid to avert any potential disruption of public order before and after the upcoming judgment, DCP Muhammad emphasized that the Police, in conjunction with other security agencies, have bolstered security measures across the state.

“I, hereby call on leaders of all political parties to prevail on their supporters to shun unguarded utterances that may trigger political tension or engage in mass action that may be seen as preparation for violent procession,” DCP Muhammad urged. Additionally, he urged them to observe moderation while celebrating, without encroaching on the rights of the general public.

Assuring the public, DCP Muhammad affirmed, “Anyone or group that tries to disrupt peace and cause breakdown of law and order shall face the full wrath of the law.” He also affirmed the police force’s unwavering commitment to ensuring adequate security for citizens, encouraging them to carry out their lawful activities while avoiding actions capable of disrupting peace in the state.

The governorship election petition tribunal, which had nullified the election of Governor Abdullahi Sule of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and declared David Umbugadu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner in a split judgment of two to one on October 2, has set the stage for an intense legal battle. Mr. Sule proceeded to challenge the tribunal’s decision, and the case was heard at the Appeal Court on November 15. The court has since reserved its judgment, withholding an official announcement for the time being.

NAN