FCT Police Refute Claims of PDP Headquarters Shutdown, Say Officers Were Deployed to Ensure Public Safety [VIDEO]

 

Confusion swept through the political corridors of Abuja on Monday, as reports surfaced suggesting that the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had been sealed off by law enforcement agents. The widely circulated claims, which sparked heated debate among political observers and PDP supporters alike, have now been categorically denied by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command.

According to a statement from the command, no such action was taken to seal the party’s headquarters located at Wadata Plaza in Wuse Zone 5. The police emphasized that their presence at the scene was purely for maintaining public peace and security, dismissing the initial narrative as both false and misleading.

SP Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, addressed the issue with clarity. She explained that officers had been strategically positioned in the area as a proactive measure to prevent any possible breakdown of law and order. At no point, she stressed, was access to the PDP secretariat restricted by the police.

Social media and some media outlets had earlier been abuzz with claims that security operatives had taken over the premises, leading to speculation about internal party tensions or a possible political clampdown. This led to a flurry of reactions online, including concerns about a breach of democratic space and freedom of association.

SP Adeh, however, clarified that these fears were unfounded. The deployment, she said, fell within the purview of the command’s responsibility to protect lives and property. She advised members of the public, especially media practitioners, to always confirm details related to security matters through official police communication channels.

The statement from the police came at a crucial time, when the country’s political climate remains sensitive. As parties gear up for future elections and internal restructuring, the presence of uniformed officers near a major party’s secretariat could easily be misinterpreted without proper context. It is for this reason, the police reiterated, that verified and factual reporting must remain a priority.

Observers note that while the PDP has not released an official statement reacting to the clarification, the party’s activities within the complex reportedly continued without interruption. Staff and visitors were seen going about their duties, indicating that operations at the secretariat had not been hindered in any way.

The FCT Commissioner of Police has also weighed in, advising media organizations to approach the Police Public Relations Office before publishing stories involving the force. He emphasized the importance of accuracy and restraint in disseminating security-related information, particularly in a politically charged environment.

False narratives, he noted, have the potential to stir unnecessary tension and erode public trust in democratic institutions. He called for greater collaboration between the media and law enforcement, highlighting that journalists play a pivotal role in shaping public perception.

Meanwhile, political analysts are urging all stakeholders to remain vigilant but not reactionary. They stress that security deployments in areas of political significance should be viewed in context, especially when there is no official communication suggesting otherwise. Some have also raised concerns over the increasing trend of misinformation in the media landscape, which they say could lead to unwarranted panic and confusion.

For residents of Abuja and party loyalists, the clarification from the police may offer some reassurance. However, the episode underscores the delicate balance between security operations and public perception in a democratic setting.

As the political scene continues to evolve, experts agree that transparency, responsible reporting, and timely communication from both state actors and the media will be vital in maintaining public confidence and ensuring national stability.

The FCT Police Command concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to peace, professionalism, and the protection of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.