ADC Guber Candidate Urges Due Process in Calabar Police Assault Case

The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River State, Mrs Nkoyo Toyo, has condemned the recent reported assault of a police officer in Calabar.

Speaking in an interview in Calabar on Wednesday, Toyo said police officers, like all other citizens, are entitled to legal protection while carrying out their lawful duties.

The incident reportedly occurred on Sept. 15, 2026, during a confrontation between roadside traders and others in the Watt Market area of the state capital. The State Police Command has since arrested some suspects in connection with the alleged assault.

Toyo, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Ethiopia and Djibouti, called for a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation and prosecution of all persons found culpable in the incident. She said attacks on law enforcement officers undermine public safety, weaken respect for the rule of law, and pose a threat to the security of the wider community.

She stressed, however, that justice must be guided by evidence, fairness and due process rather than collective punishment or arbitrary arrests, urging the state police command to ensure the investigation and prosecution of the alleged attackers are carried out diligently, professionally and transparently.

"Every suspect must be treated as innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction," she said, adding that anyone against whom credible evidence is established should face the full consequences of the law, in line with due process.

She also called on the police command to provide timely updates on the case and ensure the rights of all parties involved are 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.