APP Secretariat Explosion: One Too Many

Port Harcourt’s tranquility was shattered recently as a deafening blast ripped through the Action People’s Party (APP) secretariat. Dynamite, the suspected explosive, left behind a scene of utter devastation. The once vibrant building lay in ruins, with shattered windows, and debris scattered across the environ. The explosion sent shockwaves, leaving behind a cloud of fear.
While no casualties were immediately reported, the incident has ignited concerns about escalating political violence in the state. The timing of the attack has heightened tensions and raised questions about the motives behind the act. Security agencies are reportedly investigating the incident to bring the perpetrators to justice. The blast occurred amid rumours of a potential defection by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his supporters to the APP.
This attack underscores the alarming threat to the safety and security of political institutions. The incident demands immediate action to safeguard these vital pillars of democracy. Political parties are essential for the healthy functioning of any society. They provide avenues for citizens to participate in decision-making, represent diverse viewpoints, and hold governments accountable. However, when they are targeted with violence and intimidation, their ability to fulfil these critical functions is severely compromised.
Assaulting political parties not only poses a physical threat to politicians and party members but also undermines public confidence in the electoral process itself. It creates an atmosphere of fear and insecurity that can dissuade individuals from participating in politics and expressing their opinions freely.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, has a fundamental responsibility to protect and uphold the rule of law. In light of this attack, the authorities must prioritise the safety of political parties by implementing comprehensive security measures. These include enhanced surveillance, increased police presence, and prompt investigations to deter and apprehend any potential attackers.
Despite the alarming incident, the absence of arrests or prosecutions is deeply concerning. The state police command must assume accountability and enhance its efforts to uphold law and order. Law enforcement capabilities and intelligence gathering should be intensified to pinpoint the whereabouts of the perpetrators. This proactive approach will not only deter future crimes but also restore public confidence in the police’s ability to protect citizens.
Moreover, the police should collaborate with individuals to foster information sharing and strengthen surveillance. Establishing a hotline or anonymous reporting system can facilitate the reporting of suspicious activities, providing vital leads to apprehend the criminals. Community policing initiatives can bridge the gap between residents and law enforcement, promoting a sense of shared responsibility for public safety.
By addressing the shortcomings in law enforcement and implementing proactive measures, the state police command can effectively contain the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future. The safety of citizens depends on a vigilant and responsive police force that is committed to apprehending criminals. There might be more attacks if the police remain docile.
Those who make inflammatory statements should be invited and interrogated. The silence of the police in the face of a recent inciting statement made by the former Ikwerre Local Government Area Chairman, Mr Samuel Nwanosike, has raised concerns about their impartiality. Nwanosike’s threat to destroy the property of Governor Siminalayi Fubara has gone unaddressed by the police, despite the potential for it to incite violence and destabilise the state.
The failure of the police to prosecute the perpetrator of the bombing at the Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt during a protest march by former Governor Nyesom Wike’s supporters has cast a shadow over their impartiality in the ongoing political crisis in the state. This has encouraged the attack on the party secretariat.
A neutral police force is essential for maintaining peace in a democratic society. Citizens must trust that the police will act without bias, regardless of political affiliations or personal interests. However, the failure to hold accountable those responsible for such a blatant act of aggression undermines public confidence in the force.
We must not tolerate the use of savagery in the pursuit of political goals. Any attempt to silence or intimidate political opponents through fury is a direct assault on the principles of democratic governance. The state has a duty to protect its citizens and ensure that all political activities are conducted in a safe and peaceful manner.
The dynamite attack on the APP secretariat is a wake-up call for all Rivers people and Nigerians. We must recommit ourselves to building a society where political racketeering is unthinkable. If we work together, we can safeguard our democracy and ensure that all citizens can participate in the political process without fear or intimidation.