Bayelsa forum to IGP: Call SWAT to order, citizens’ rights should be protected during polls

An organisation known as the Bayelsa Progressives Forum says Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police (IGP), must ensure that there is peace during the November 11 guber election in the state.

The forum said it appreciates the importance of effective policing but it should not be an excuse for the rights of law-abiding citizens to be violated.

The group said there are reports of alleged police “intimidation” in Nembe communities by personnel of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit formerly known as Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

In a statement on Friday, Timi Osborn, the forum’s coordinator, said there must be a balance between maintaining law and order and respecting citizens’ rights, adding that SWAT must be called to order.

“It is with utmost alarm that we note the increasing incidents of alleged police misconduct and abuses targeting the residents of Nembe communities, over the past few weeks,” Osborn said.

“Such actions not only violate the fundamental rights of our citizens but also pose a severe threat to the peaceful conduct of the upcoming gubernatorial election in Bayelsa state.

“We recognise the importance of a robust and effective police force, and we acknowledge the challenging tasks they undertake to ensure security and public order.

“However, this should never be an excuse for the violation of the rights of law-abiding citizens. We must strike a balance between maintaining security and respecting the democratic rights of our people.

“As we approach the forthcoming governorship election in Bayelsa state, we implore the Inspector-General of Police to intervene and call the SWAT unit to order.”

The coordinator said they are ready to support the police in ensuring that there is peace and order in the state.