…vow to provide equal security for all parties

Ahead of 2027 general elections, Cross River State Police Command has warned political parties and actors against violence, thuggery and hate speech, pledging equal protection for all lawful political activities.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, gave warning Thursday in Calabar at high-level security dialogue with political parties, INEC, youth groups and community leaders at Police Officers’ Mess.

“No political party will be denied protection for lawful activities,” CP Ordue declared, assuring institutional neutrality.

He directed political parties to liaise with Divisional Police Officers and give prior notice of rallies and campaigns to enable seamless security planning.

The police chief condemned the October 2 incident where suspected hoodlums disrupted a political campaign in Calabar South, warning that harassment or violence against opponents will face swift legal sanctions.

He cautioned party leaders against inflammatory rhetoric, mudslinging and hate speech capable of igniting unrest, and urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth bodies and media to promote peace.

CP Ordue recalled Command’s youth-focused Walkathon and Dialogue held August 21, 2026 with the theme “My Future Is Greater Than Political and Digital Thuggery,” aimed at shielding youths from political exploitation and electoral violence.

Stakeholders at the meeting included the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof. G. O. Yomere, representatives of APC, PDP, Labour Party, National Youth Council, PCRC, CROSPISY, traditional institutions and local government authorities.