The Police Command in Cross River says adequate preparations have been made to ensure peaceful electioneering campaigns and conduct of 2023 general elections in the state.
Mr Sule Balarabe, the Commissioner of Police in the state, said this when state Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr Nsa Gill, paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Calabar.
Balarabe said that the command was collaborating with critical stakeholders to ensure peaceful campaigns and elections.
“I want to use this medium to call on pertinent stakeholders, political party leaders and all spirited citizens to play by the rule, go about their legitimate businesses without fear of molestation.
“In the same vein, youths are advised to shun political thuggery, social vices and other forms of violence, but rather embark on meaningful projects.
“We can assure you that the 2023 campaigns and elections in Cross River are going to be very peaceful.
“We are collaborating with the traditional and religious leaders, youths and critical stakeholders to see how we can come together to ensure that all forms violence are reduced and minimised,” he said.
The police commissioner also assured all political parties in the state of fairness before, during and after the polls.
He pledged that the command would conscientiously operate on the principles of justice, equity and fairness.
Earlier, Gill informed the commissioner that the visit was to enhance the existing relationship between the media and the command, especially as the commissioner had just assumed office.
He said that it was important for the media and the police to collaborate in the area of information dissemination ahead of the polls.
Gill also briefed the commissioner on the planned media week of the state council of NUJ, scheduled to hold between Nov. 22 and Nov. 27.