Protest in Bayelsa despite police ban

In spite of the ban placed on public processions, rallies and protests in Bayelsa State by police, supporters of the People’s Democratic Party are currently protesting at  the INEC Collation Centre in Yenagoa, Bayelsa.

Bayelsa Police Command had earlier on Monday banned public processions and rallies, saying it was acting on an intelligence report.

Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of training and development and Bayelsa Election, Hashimu Argungu, said this in a statement that the ban became necessary after the police uncovered plans by “some disgruntled elements” to  stage a protest in the state.

He warned that “This form of conduct will jeopardize the ongoing electoral process. Therefore the command warns the intending perpetrators to desist from such acts as it will deal decisively with any person or group of persons who wishes to engage in any conduct that will compromise the existing peaceful atmosphere.”

But, obviously, the ban has had little or no effect has tens of PDP supporters thronged the collation centre to protest what they perceived as injustice.

Meanwhile, detachments of anti-riot policemen and soldiers have taken over some strategic areas in Yenagoa to forestall breakdown of law and order.