Anambra Police Deploy Commanders, Warn Against Violence at Imoka Festival, APGA Primaries

The Anambra State Police Command has deployed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and heads of tactical formations across the state ahead of Saturday’s Imoka Festival in Awka and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) state and National Assembly primary elections.

The Command said the deployment is to ensure adequate security coverage, maintain law and order, and protect lives and property during both events scheduled to take place today.

In a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Command warned against violence, cultism, thuggery, and any act capable of disrupting public peace. 

“The Command has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tactical commanders to personally supervise operations within their Areas of Responsibility,” Ikenga said. 

The Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu, speaking on behalf of other security agencies, cautioned individuals and groups against actions that could cause friction, panic, or a breakdown of law and order. 

The joint security team specifically warned against intimidation, attacks on persons or groups, public display of weapons, and the erection of canopies or structures that obstruct traffic.

The warning comes after Governor Charles Soludo, at a meeting with Ozo title holders of Awka, urged a reconsideration of the May 23 date for the Imoka Festival, citing potential security challenges from holding it on the same day as APGA’s primaries. 

Preliminary activities for the festival began on Monday with traditional visits to Umuopku village, ahead of the main celebration on Saturday.

APGA has also confirmed it will proceed with its direct primaries at ward and local government levels on the same day.

The Police Command urged residents, political actors, and festival participants to conduct themselves peacefully and cooperate with deployed officers. It reassured residents of its commitment to a peaceful process and asked the public to report suspicious activity to the nearest police station or security formation.