An aide to Governor, David Umahi has denied the involvement of the state government in the tear gas attack that disrupted the Obidient rally currently ongoing in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
Reports went viral earlier on Saturday that the Ebonyi State Police Command fired tear gas at a crowd assembled to embark on a one million march rally for the Labour Party (LP), presidential candidate Peter Obi, at the Pastoral Centre, Abakaliki.
One of the supporters who witnessed the incident, Steve Ugama, disclosed that over five other supporters were arrested by the police after they teargassed the crowd.
He further lamented that the treatment meted to the supporters, who were having a peaceful rally, was undemocratic and inhuman.
Reacting to the development, the aide told the Whistler that the government had no hands in it, adding that the orders were not from the state government
He said; “I can confirm to you that the state government has no hand in it. Ask the organisers if they got clearance from the police. I am not authorized to speak on this matter, but I am sure of what I’m telling you.
“The allegations should clarify if those dispersed were violating the peace in the state. Again, the Nigeria Police is a federal agency, so you can direct your search to the Force PRO.”
The state police public relations officer, Chris Anyanwu, has not responded to inquiries about the incident.
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Chaos as Police Disperse Obidient Rally with Tear Gas (video)
Dave Umahi Reacts to News of Attack on Obidient Rally