Security measures around the Plateau State House of Assembly have been intensified as tensions rise between supporters of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and their counterparts from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The escalation in security follows a contentious court ruling that saw 16 PDP lawmakers sacked, with the Court of Appeal declaring APC candidates as winners of the March 18, 2023, House of Assembly elections.
The ruling has led to a standoff outside the Assembly complex in Jos, with PDP supporters keeping vigil alongside APC supporters, both demanding their respective interests be upheld.
Concerns over potential unrest prompted the Plateau State police command to cordon off roads leading to the Assembly complex, with officers deployed to maintain peace and prevent any violent clashes.
The uncertainty surrounding the fate of the 16 sacked PDP lawmakers, coupled with the initial removal of Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang following the same court ruling, has further fueled tensions.
While the Supreme Court has since overturned the governor’s removal, the fate of the 16 lawmakers remains unresolved as they seek reinstatement pending a final decision.
Both PDP and APC supporters have voiced their grievances, with PDP supporters alleging an attempted power grab by the APC, while APC supporters argue for the implementation of the court ruling.
Despite heavy police presence, neither group attempted to enter the Assembly complex on Tuesday. Instead, both camps held separate meetings to strategize their next moves, indicating the standoff may persist.
