The Inspector General of Police ,IGP Suleiman Abba has defended his decision to draft policemen to the National Assembly on Thursday.Abba who spoke through a statement by Force Spokesman,Ag CP Emmanuel C. S. Ojukwu said he acted based on “intelligence report of a likely invasion of the House of Representatives by hoodlums and thugs”.
According to the IG, “Following an intelligence report of a likely invasion of the House of Representatives by hoodlums and thugs, the Nigeria Police Force promptly deployed its personnel to the premises to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
“Consequently, the Police condoned the area and began screening of all members and visitors alike.
“In the course of this lawful exercise, Alh. Aminu Tambuwal CFR, arrived the venue with a motley crowd, who broke the cordon, assaulted the Police and evaded due process and the Police had the duty to restore order and normalcy, using lawful means”.
It is doubtful whether the IG’s account reflects what actually transpired Thursday ,because Nigerians saw the Speaker on television practically pleading with police officer in charge to come and listen to him, but the officer simply walked away while the gate remained locked.Impatient lawmakers later started shaking the iron gate while others scaled it.
The police statement further said “The IGP seizes this medium to warn all political actors and their followers to respect constituted authority and due process and to desist from the use of thugs to pursue their agenda.
“The Nigeria Police shall continually apply all lawful means to prevent a breakdown of law and order in all segments of the society and shall apply the full weight of the law on any political actor who violates the peace and security of the nation”,the IG said.