Adebowale Williams, the commissioner of police for Oyo state, issued a warning to lawmakers on Friday against organising any unauthorised gatherings or campaigns outside of the Independent National Electoral Commission's allotted window of time (INEC).
The State Police Command wishes to categorically advise the public and politicians against holding any political processions or rallies until the official beginning of the designated and approved period for Political Campaigns by INEC, according to CP. Adebowale in a press release issued and signed by the state police command public relations officer, SP. Adewale Osifeso.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regulations regarding pre-electioneering activities toward the upcoming 2023 General Elections require the Oyo State Police Command to categorically advise the public against holding any political processions or rallies until the official beginning of the designated campaign period, according to a copy of the statement made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo state.
In furtherance of the above and guided by Section 40 of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), where every citizen is entitled to assemble freely and associate with persons with the same interest and values, the command is also obligated to ensure that the provisions of Section 45 stands where the rights of other citizens must be protected in the interest of public order and morality.
However, considering the various ongoing constructions, traffic considerations around the metropolis and possible emergence of security threats to others, the Oyo State Police Command have made comprehensive plans of providing security for static assemblage of people, groups and interest at any place or time provided the much-needed clearance for such was sought and approved.
So also, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Williams psc(+) fdc has directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and all tactical commanders to personally lead confidence building patrols across the length and breadth of the state to include but not limited to critical infrastructures, media houses, religious centers , recreational centers and other public spaces with a view to maintain law and order in this regard.
Penultimately, Political Splinter groups, Support Coalitions, Parents, Guardians and leaders wielding different degrees of influence are enjoined to advise their supporters,followers, children, wards and proteges against being used to scuttle the relative tranquility status in the State.
Lastly, the good people of the State are advised to go about their lawful business without fear of molestation and harassment as the Command continues to monitor activities within the State.
In cases of emergency, the Command can always be reached through these emergency control room numbers: 615 (toll free) (OYO STATE SECURITY TRUST FUND), and Oyo State Police Command emergency lines 07055495413 and 08081768614. The NPF rescue me app is also available for free download on both Android and Apple IOS, for Android and I phone users respectively.