Pro-Wike rally: Bayelsa govt vows to sanction churches hosting political rallies

The Bayelsa State Government has expressed dismay over the shooting incident that occurred during a political rally organised in the state by the NEW Associates, a group allegedly loyal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Obiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the state government stated that it would not hesitate to sanction any religious organisation that hosts political rallies before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declares the commencement of election campaigns.

Mrs. Koku-Obiyai further called on the Inspector-General of Police and the police authorities in the state to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.

The government expressed concern that the shooting was not a coincidence, noting that the organisers had earlier threatened that “the good, the bad, and the ugly” would attend the event. It questioned why a gathering expected to be peaceful turned violent, with some attendees reportedly injured.

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The statement urged the police to immediately begin an investigation to identify and prosecute those involved in the incident.

While noting that the event violated the guidelines for political activities as stipulated in the Electoral Act and by INEC, the government also pointed out that it was held on the grounds of a religious organisation.

The government warned political groups in the state against dragging religious organisations into their partisan activities, which it said desecrate sacred places of worship.

The state government reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring the security of lives and property for all residents.

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