The Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 persons in connection with the blockade of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr Peter Obi, during his tour to the state on Tuesday.
The commissioner of police, Mr Cletus Nwadiogbu, made this known on Wednesday at a press conference in Makurdi, saying the arrests followed intelligence-led operations launched immediately after the incident.
Nwadiogbu clarified that the command was informed of Obi’s visit at about 5:30pm on Monday, September 7, and subsequently deployed adequate security personnel to protect him throughout his movement in the state.
“Consequently, adequate security was deployed, including three police escort vehicles with personnel led by an assistant commissioner of police,” the commissioner said.
But said Obi’s movement was, however, obstructed by a group of persons, creating tension and a situation which, according to him, could have deteriorated into violence.
“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property,” Nwadiogbu said.
According to him, “The police subsequently ensured the safety of the former Anambra State governor by escorting him back to the airport, from where he departed the state peacefully.
“Let me state clearly that the tactical decision taken by the police should not be mistaken for inaction.
“The Command immediately commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. 46 arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident,” he added.
