The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River, Mrs Nkoyo Toyo, has condemned the reported assault of a police officer in Calabar.
Toyo, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Ethiopia and Djibouti, condemned the incident in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar on Wednesday.
She said police officers, like other citizens, were entitled to protection under the law while carrying out their lawful duties.
NAN reports that the incident allegedly occurred on Sept. 15, 2026, during a confrontation involving roadside traders and others around the Watt Market area of Calabar.
Following the incident, the Cross River State Police Command arrested some suspects in connection with the alleged assault.
Toyo called for a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into the incident, as well as the prosecution of anyone found culpable.
According to her, attacking a law enforcement officer undermines public safety, weakens respect for the rule of law and poses a threat to the security of the wider community.
She, however, stressed that justice must be based on evidence, fairness and due process, rather than collective punishment or arbitrary arrests.
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The ADC candidate urged the police command to ensure that the investigation and prosecution of the alleged attackers were conducted diligently, professionally and transparently.
“Every suspect must be treated as innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction,” she said.
Toyo added that anyone against whom credible evidence was established should face the full consequences of the law in accordance with due process.
She also urged the police command to provide timely updates on the case and ensure that the rights of all parties were respected throughout the proceedings.
“The people of Cross River deserve a justice system that protects police officers, safeguards citizens and upholds the rule of law without fear or favour,” Toyo said.
