IGP Orders Probe Into Okrika APC Rally Explosion, Shooting

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines Wednesday, February 18th, 2015

By Niyi Adeyi – Twenty four hours after the attack, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Suleiman Abba, has directed a comprehensive investigations into the shooting and explosion which disrupted the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), Rivers State Governorship candidate, Dr. Dakuku Peterside rally in Okrika Local Government Area of the South South State.

In a statement issued Wednesday, by the Force Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Ojukwu, IGP Abba ordered the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 6, Calabar Mr. Tunde Ogunshakin, to commence a prompt questioning of the attack at the National Secondary School Field venue of the opposition rally and bring all the perpetrators, conspirators and sponsors to justice.

When identified, the Police boss, equally commanded the AIG to effect speedy prosecution of suspects arrested, in connection with violence across the country.

IGP also noted with grave concern that despite serious warnings, advices and interfaces with political actors to avoid acts of violence in the ongoing electoral process, such acts have continued.

Abba restated the resolve and commitment of the Nigeria Police Force, in line with its constitutional and statutory mandate, to continue to provide an impartial level playing ground for all political parties to sell their manifestos and woo the electorates.

The statement indicated that IGP regretted that the loss of lives of policemen in the course of providing safety in the electoral process, while his heart went out to the families of the slain colleagues as he wished the injured officers speedy recovery and return to national duty.

It would be recalled a police was killed while three and several others, including APC members and journalist were injured.

In the meantime, IGP has announced that the Police Special Taskforce on Heinous Crimes has busted a notorious criminal gang that specializes in snatching of vehicles at different at different points across the country.

Abba in a separate press statement issued Tuesday, pointed out that four suspects linked with the criminal activities have been arrested while 51 vehicles of different makes have been recovered.

Members of the public have been urged to check through the list with the Special task force in Abuja, Kaduna and Onitsha via contact line; 0803 555 7676.