Let Us Avoid Political Violence
One of the features of Nigerian politics is thuggery. It is very difficult to remove violence from politics during an election especially a period of electioneering campaign. Political violence has destroyed so many lives and properties in Nigeria. As political activities commence across the nation hoodlums have began their nefarious attitude to undue perceived political rivals of their pay masters.
Last Sunday, there was exchange of hot blows between the supporters of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Mile 3, Diobu axis of the Port Harcourt City Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Also some thugs disrupted the APC ward congresses in the Obio/Akpor LGA. The thugs allegedly unleashed mayhem on the APC loyalists, using dangerous weapons such as guns and matchets.
On Tuesday information had it that supporters of APC from Khana and Asari-Toru traveling to Port Harcourt to attend the presidential campaign of Buhari were attacked. During the attacks several of them sustained injuries and currently under going medical treatment at the popular Kelsy Harrison Hospital, Port Harcourt.
It would also be recalled that few weeks ago, PDP members were attacked at Abonnema, headquarters of Akuku-Toru Local Government Area. The attackers freely used weapons on them.
Many eligible voters have vowed not to come out to exercise their franchise during the February election. However, we think that we have come to an era that politicians should play politics according to the rule of the game. Politicians seeking for elective positions should caution their supporters against formenting trouble during the election. Government and relevant agencies should also beef up security to ensure that there is no breakdown of law and order during the next month general election. ###
