Watt Market Police Assault: ADC Guber Candidate Demands Justice Through Due Process

CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – As the arrest of 60 suspects over the reported assault of a police officer at Watt Market, Calabar, continues to stir attention, ADC governorship candidate Ambassador Nkoyo Toyo has called for justice to be pursued without sacrificing due process.

Toyo condemned the reported assault but cautioned that accountability must be driven by credible evidence, fairness and the rule of law, rather than collective punishment or arbitrary arrests.

The incident, reportedly on September 15, 2026, involved an alleged confrontation between a police constable and roadside traders and others around Goldie by Etim Edem Lane.

The Cross River State Police Command subsequently announced the arrest of 60 suspects for screening, with four later identified for prosecution over allegations including assaulting the officer, tearing his uniform and interfering with his police equipment.

Toyo said police officers, like every other citizen, deserved protection while performing their lawful duties, stressing that attacks on law enforcement undermine public safety.

However, she urged the police to ensure that only those against whom credible evidence had been established were prosecuted.

“I therefore call on the Cross River State Police Command to ensure that the investigation and prosecution of the alleged attackers are conducted diligently, professionally and transparently,” Toyo said.

She also urged the command to provide timely updates, respect the rights of all parties and ensure that suspects were treated as innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.

“The people of Cross River State deserve a justice system that protects police officers, safeguards citizens and upholds the rule of law without fear or favour,” she said.