The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police have announced a significant increase in their presence ahead of a planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1. In response to the anticipated demonstration by human rights activists and Nigerian youths, the police will deploy 4,200 officers across Abuja to ensure public safety and maintain order.
The protest is set to address pressing issues such as hunger and economic hardship affecting many Nigerians. Human rights groups and youth organizations are spearheading this event to voice their concerns and demand changes from the government.
According to a statement released on July 26 by SP Josephine Adeh, the FCT police spokesperson, this deployment is a preventive measure aimed at averting any potential breakdown of law and order. The police are preparing to handle the situation with a focus on preventing violence and protecting both public and private property.
SP Adeh emphasized that the police chief is committed to managing the protest without allowing any form of lawlessness or property destruction. The officers will be positioned strategically across the capital to monitor the situation and respond swiftly to any incidents that might arise.
Full Statement,
“The proactive deployment aims to ensure public safety, protect protesters, and prevent protests from being hijacked by non-state actors.
It includes visibility policing and the deployment of explosive ordnance device (EOD) experts and personnel at various strategic locations.
Additionally, operatives will conduct raids on identified black spots, uncompleted buildings, and shanties. They will also engage in stop-and-search operations, vehicular and foot patrols, and maintain synergy with sister security agencies.
The Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Benneth Igweh, while acknowledging the residents’ right to protest, advises that protests should remain peaceful.”
‘’Residents are also urged to be vigilant and report suspicious activities via the following Police emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, 07057337653 PCB: 09022222352 CRU: 08107314192”
This proactive approach highlights the police’s dedication to ensuring that the protest remains peaceful and that the rights of all participants are respected while maintaining public safety. The FCT police’s readiness reflects their focus on balancing the right to protest with the need for order and security.
