Mbu bans political rallies in Rivers' State

 THE Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, Mr. Joseph Mbu has, on Monday placed a ban on any form of political rally in the state.

He said the decision was based on the increasing political tension in the state,and the ban affects political rallies under any guise.

The State Police Command had before the outright ban on political rallies, directed that those holding rallies in the state should apply for police permission.

He also prohibited activities involving the Grassroots Development Initiative, Save Rivers Movement, and the Rivers Leadership Advancement Foundation.

“The Rivers State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that as a result of increasing political tension in the state, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command, has banned all political rallies in the State under whatever coloration or name.

“Accordingly, all public activities involving rallies of Grassroots Development Initiative, Save Rivers Movement , Rivers Leadership Advancement Foundation and whatever other names, are hereby banned,” a statement signed by the Command’s spokesman, Mr. Ahmad Mohammad read.

Mbu warned that the State Police Command would not provide security for any group that would henceforth organise rallies.

The state police commissioner, however, stated that party membership registration would only be allowed based on the provisions of the Electoral Act and regulations of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

According to the statement, “Rivers State Police Command will not; I repeat; will not provide security for any group in whatever guise.

“Party membership drive is allowed strictly as stipulated in Electoral Act 2010 as amended and INEC regulations, please.”

Reacting, the President of the Save Rivers Movement, Mr. Charles Ahorlu, said the police had no right to ban political rallies in the state.

Hmmmm....what do you think???