The Bayelsa Government has called for probe over the shooting incident during a political rally organized in the state, on Saturday by the NEW Associates, a group allegedly loyal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike.
In a statement signed and issued to newsmen on Sunday, by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, urged the Inspector-General of Police and the police authorities to unravel those behind the incident at the rally ground.
The government expressed concern that the shooting was not a coincidence as the organizers had earlier threatened that “the good, the bad and the ugly” would attend the event.
According to the statement, “It wondered why a gathering that was expected to be peaceful turned violent with some persons reportedly injured”.
The statement urged the police to immediately commence investigation in order to bring to book anyone found culpable.
While noting that the event negated guidelines for political activities as stipulated in the Electoral Act and by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The government observed that it was held on the camp ground of a religious organisation.
“It warned political groups in the state not to drag religious organisations into their partisan activities that desecrate sacred places of worship.
“It further stated that it would not hesitate to sanction any religious organisation that breach the law.
“The government restated its commitment to sustaining the peace in the state as well as ensuring the security of lives and property of all residents,” the statement reads. (NAN)
