National Assembly Crisis - The Nigerian Police explain why they were at NASS

A statement by the Police last night defended the action of its men in the National Assembly, yesterday, saying it was based on intelligence reports on the possible invasion of the National Assembly by hoodlums. In the statement issued by force spokesman, Emmanuel Ojukwu, an acting commissioner of police, the police said:

“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 cordoned off 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.

“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.”