The Enugu State Police Command has initiated an investigation into an alleged shooting incident that occurred outside the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) secretariat in Enugu on Saturday. According to the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, the incident involved unidentified armed hoodlums and resulted in a man sustaining a suspected gunshot injury while repairing a vehicle. The victim was rushed to a hospital and is reportedly in stable condition.
The alleged shooting also caused damage to the windscreens of five parked vehicles. Upon receiving a distress report, police operatives promptly responded to the scene, restored normalcy, and provided medical assistance to the injured victim. The Police Commissioner has directed the State CID to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of the incident. The investigation aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting and bring those responsible to justice.
In a separate incident on the same day, joint police and military operatives dispersed a group of suspected NDC members who had gathered at the entrance to Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. The gathering was reportedly in disorderly manner, with the party members attempting to receive their governorship candidate. Airport authorities restricted the party members from entering the airport in large numbers, leading to a misunderstanding that escalated into a fight.
The intervention of joint security operatives was necessary to restore order and prevent further escalation of the situation. The Police Commissioner emphasized the need for political parties and their members to shun violence and conduct their activities in accordance with the law and existing peace accords. He reaffirmed the Command's commitment to providing a level playing field for all political parties.
The Police Commissioner urged political parties to notify the Police of their planned activities to facilitate adequate security arrangements. This, he believes, will enable the Police to provide necessary security measures and prevent potential incidents. The Command's efforts aim to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all political activities in the state.
The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in Enugu, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections. The Police Command's swift response to the alleged shooting and the dispersal of the suspected NDC members demonstrates its commitment to maintaining law and order in the state. The investigation into the alleged shooting is ongoing, and the Command is expected to provide updates on the progress of the probe.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress has not commented on the incident, but the party's members are expected to cooperate with the Police during the investigation. The alleged shooting and the dispersal of party members at the airport have highlighted the need for political parties to prioritize peaceful and lawful conduct during their activities.
Key points
- The Enugu State Police Command has launched an investigation into an alleged shooting outside the Nigeria Democratic Congress secretariat.
- The incident resulted in a man sustaining a suspected gunshot injury and damage to five parked vehicles.
- The Police Command has urged political parties to shun violence and notify the Police of their planned activities to ensure adequate security arrangements.
