By Anayo Okoli

UMUAHIA—AHEAD of March 28 and April 11 general elections, Abia State Police Command has assured of the provision of adequate security to all political parties, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, officials and ballot papers.

The command also assured international observers of adequate security during the elections.

State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Joshak Habila, who gave the assurance in Umuahia at the peace accord signing for House of Assembly candidates for the election, also charged the candidates and parties to advise their supporters accordingly.

According to Habila, politicians should educate their supporters against destroying opponents’ posters and other campaign materials, which can lead to violence.

He said: “I am sure that all the candidates are desirous of a peaceful election which should make you put national interest, peace and unity of the country before your personal interests.

“You are expected to educate your supporters not to destroy or deface posters of your opponents, which may lead to violence as some of your supporters love you to the extent of dying for you politicians.”

In their reaction, some of the candidates alleged that policemen were used to block opposition agents from entering the collating centres at local government councils in the past.

They also vowed to resist such practice during the forthcoming elections.