Politicians sponsoring thugs to disrupt elections in Akwa Ibom — Police

The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom, Mr Bashir Makama, has accused politicians of sponsoring thugs to distort the peace and security of the state during this year’s general elections.

Makama made the accusation during a meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and political stakeholders in Uyo on Tuesday.

He urged the people of the state to report any form of violence perpetrated by thugs in the state before and during the 2019 general elections for prompt action.

“I want to urge all Akwa Ibom people to be peaceful and accept the opinion of others and do it in line with laid down procedures.

 “If there is a peaceful and credible election, the votes of the people will speak for itself.

“Political parties have filled the state with thugs and if you can identify them, your responsibility should be to report so that something can be done about it but if you have the information and you do not report, nothing can be done.

“When I first came to Akwa Ibom, I was accused of partnering with a political party. I want to make it clear that our duty is to serve the people of Akwa Ibom,’’ Makama said.