The Nigeria Police Force, Plateau State command, has debunked claim that its arrest of the governorship candidate of the Labour Party in the state, Yohanna Margif, is politically motivated.
Margif’s arrest has been widely regarded as a matter of politics.
But contrary to the views, a statement the Command released through its spokesman, Alfred Alabo, titled “Re: Armed Policemen Arrest Plateau LP Governorship Candidate,” said the candidate’s apprehension is in connection with allegation that he issued a dud cheque in a business deal.
The statement reads, “Contrary to the report being circulated by “some online news media” alleging that the arrest of Yohanna Margif by operatives of the Plateau State Command is politically motivated, the command wishes to inform members of the public that such report is malicious, misleading and unfounded.
“Ambassador Margif was criminally reported against by his business associate, one E.C Gajare who alleged that Ambassador Margit issued him a dud bank cheque over a business deal they had in a recent time. Hence, the police invited the ambassador to answer the allegation levelled against him.
“The Plateau State Police Command wishes to set the record straight that the Nigeria Police is a non-partisan organisation that rigorously pursues criminal matters with vigour irrespective of who is involved.
“Members of the public are hereby, urged to disregard such noxious report aimed at tarnishing the image of the Plateau State Police Command.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Bartholomew N Onyeka, wants the general public to know that nothing can distract the Command from discharging its constitutional duties and responsibilities. The CP further advised all media houses to always verify information before making any publication, while he admonished members of the public to go about their lawful businesses and promptly report any suspicious movements within their community.”
