The Bayelsa State Government has expressed dismay over the shooting incident during a political rally organised in the state on Saturday by the NEW Associates, a group allegedly loyal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike.
The state government in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Obiuwou Koku-Obiyai, weekend called on the Inspector-General of Police and the police authorities in the state to unravel those behind the incident at the rally ground.
The government expressed concern that the shooting was not a coincidence, as the organisers had earlier threatened that “the good, the bad and the ugly” would attend the event.
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 an 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 breaches 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.
Meanwhile, the leadership of the Church of God Mission International, Bayelsa Bishopric Headquarters, has said that the use of the church premises by the NEW Associates was not approved for any political rally or activities.
In a statement in Yenagoa, the coordinator, Rev. Dr. Alexander Inegbese, noted that as a place of worship and spiritual refuge, the church remains neutral and is committed to maintaining an environment free from political influence and endorsement.
“The permission granted to Dr. Pabara Newton Igwele, was not known to the church to be used as a political rally by the NEW Associates group. We, therefore, prohibit the use of the campground for political purposes”, Rev. Inegbese stated.
