Police Explain How They Prevented Clash Between APC, NDC Supporters In Calabar
The Cross River State Police Command has explained how its operatives prevented a possible clash between supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Calabar on Wednesday.
The incident occurred as the NDC held a presidential town hall meeting featuring its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, while APC supporters staged a rally and road walk towards the state Government House.
Tension reportedly rose when the two groups converged near a hotel along Murtala Mohammed Highway, close to the U.J. Esuene Stadium, where the NDC meeting was scheduled to take place.
Hundreds of Obi and Kwankwaso supporters had gathered outside the hotel, while APC supporters, including members of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), approached the area.
Police officers intervened by separating the groups and redirecting the APC supporters to prevent a confrontation.
A police officer, who declined to disclose his identity, said the intervention was necessary to prevent violence.
“What we have done is very necessary; otherwise, it would have been a bloody scene,” the officer said.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata, said the command’s timely intervention and engagement with the groups prevented a possible confrontation.
He said officers appealed to both sides to exercise restraint, maintain peace and ensure their activities were conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law.
The hotel management subsequently restricted access to its premises as security operatives maintained order around the facility.
As of the time of filing this report, officials of the two political groups had yet to issue statements on the incident.
