The Bayelsa State Government has expressed strong dismay over the shooting incident that occurred during a political rally organized on Saturday by the NEW Associates, a group allegedly loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike.
In a statement issued Saturday night by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Obiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the government called on the Inspector-General of Police and the state police authorities to immediately investigate and uncover those responsible for the violence.
The government noted that the shooting appeared premeditated, especially as the rally’s organizers had previously warned that “the good, the bad, and the ugly” would attend the event.
It questioned why a gathering expected to be peaceful turned violent, leaving several individuals reportedly injured.
The statement urged law enforcement agencies to launch a thorough investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
Highlighting that the rally violated electoral guidelines set by the Electoral Act and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the government also pointed out that the event was held at the camp ground of a religious organization.
It warned political groups against dragging religious institutions into partisan politics and desecrating sacred places of worship, stressing that any religious organization found breaching the law would face sanctions.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and protecting the lives and property of all residents in Bayelsa State.
