The Bayelsa State Government has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to launch a thorough investigation into the shooting incident that occurred during a rally organised by the NEW Associates at the Church of God Mission Camp Ground, Igbogene, Yenagoa, on Saturday.

In a statement issued late Saturday, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, condemned the shooting at the rally and urged the police to swiftly identify and prosecute those responsible.

The government stressed the need for an immediate police investigation into the shooting to ensure that all individuals found culpable are brought to book.

The statement partly read, “The government highlighted the troubling nature of the incident, noting that it was not an isolated occurrence, as the rally’s organisers had previously issued a warning that ‘the good, the bad, and the ugly’ would be present at the event.

“Concerned about the shift from what was expected to be a peaceful gathering to a violent confrontation—resulting in several reported injuries—the government emphasised the need for swift action from law enforcement. They called for an immediate investigation to hold accountable those responsible for the violence.”

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The Bayelsa State Government also pointed out that the event violated guidelines for political activities as stipulated in the Electoral Act and by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It observed that the rally was held on the grounds of a religious organisation, an act it described as inappropriate.

The government warned political groups in Bayelsa against involving religious organisations in their partisan activities, stating that such acts desecrate sacred places of worship.

It further stated that it would not hesitate to sanction any religious organisation that breaches the law by allowing its premises to be used for political purposes.

Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace, the Bayelsa State Government assured residents that it would continue working to safeguard lives and property across the state.