In a timely show of professionalism and conflict resolution, the Anambra State Police Command on Thursday, August 1, 2025, swiftly quelled a brewing political dispute in Nri, Anaocha Local Government Area, during a campaign rally.
According to a statement signed by SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Command, the incident occurred at about 1:30 pm and stemmed from an alleged act of provocation in which some political party supporters pulled down three campaign billboards belonging to a rival party. The action led to a brief disturbance before police operatives intervened to restore order.
The Command immediately invited both parties involved to a peace meeting aimed at de-escalating the tension. Following discussions, a mutual agreement was reached to replace the removed billboards without delay, despite one party’s claim that the action was triggered by non-payment of signage fees.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, specifically the Political Desk. This move is to uphold the mutual resolution already reached or otherwise ensure a more discreet and impartial investigation.
CP Orutugu also called on all political actors and their supporters in the state to carry out their campaigns and other related activities peacefully and in accordance with the law, stressing the Command’s zero tolerance for political violence or acts capable of breaching public peace.
The Anambra Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, especially as the political season gathers momentum.