The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups threatening protests and other unlawful actions over the arrest and prosecution of Princess God’sown Udoito, declaring that the matter is already before a court of competent jurisdiction.

The Police cautioned that any attempt to intimidate, influence, or disrupt the judicial process through threats, protests, or other unlawful conduct will not be tolerated.

In a statement made available to our correspondent yesterday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Akwa Ibom State Command, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force operates strictly within the provisions of the law and respects due process.

“The Commissioner of Police reiterates that the arrest and prosecution of the suspect followed due investigation and were carried out in line with extant legal provisions,” the PPRO stated.

While acknowledging citizens’ constitutional rights to lawful expression and peaceful assembly, the Police warned that the Command would deal decisively with any acts capable of breaching public peace and morality.

According to the statement, the Command will not tolerate threats or acts of nude protests, unlawful occupation of public or private facilities, disruption of government, economic, or social activities, or any conduct capable of undermining public order and safety.

“The Command wishes to make it clear that any individual or group that engages in or attempts to carry out these acts will be promptly arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the PPRO warned.

The Police further advised aggrieved individuals and groups to channel their grievances through legal and civil means and allow the courts to determine the matter, rather than resorting to actions capable of escalating tension in the state.

The Command reassured residents of its commitment to maintaining law and order and protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and refrain from any act capable of disturbing the prevailing peace in Akwa Ibom State. (TRIBUNE)