Nigeria Police Issue Warning on Foreign Mercenaries and Disruptive Groups Amid Nationwide Protests
The Nigeria Police Force has raised alarm over credible intelligence suggesting that upcoming nationwide protests could be exploited by foreign mercenaries and malicious groups aiming to sow chaos. Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olukayode Egbetokun recently addressed this pressing issue, emphasizing the importance of caution and the dangers posed by both local and international disruptors striving to manipulate peaceful assemblies for nefarious purposes.
In his statement, IGP Egbetokun acknowledged the constitutional right of Nigerians to assemble peacefully and express their concerns. However, he stressed that even well-intentioned protests could fall prey to manipulation by groups with criminal agendas. He advised Nigerian citizens to be vigilant and wary of such influences before joining any protest activities. 'It is crucial,' he said, 'for the public to be aware and take every precaution to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.'
The police have made it clear that any form of violence, including the killing of innocent citizens, the destruction of public and private property, or looting, will not be tolerated. Authorities are determined to prevent violent incidents and maintain public order. IGP Egbetokun assured that the police force is prepared to enforce laws and protect lives and property, underscoring the need for everyone to cooperate with law enforcement efforts.
The Role of Foreign Mercenaries and Malicious Groups
The intelligence reports highlight the potential threat posed by foreign mercenaries being hired to destabilize the nation during the protests. Malicious groups, both within and outside Nigeria, are reportedly planning to exploit the situation to further their own agendas. These groups could infiltrate peaceful demonstrations and incite violence, leading to severe consequences for participants and the broader community.
To counter these threats, the Nigeria Police Force is calling on protest organizers to provide detailed information about their plans. Organizers are urged to inform the Commissioner of Police in their respective states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) about their intent to hold demonstrations. This, according to Egbetokun, will enable the police to offer necessary security measures to ensure the safety and orderliness of the events.
Ensuring Safe and Peaceful Protests
The police are committed to facilitating peaceful demonstrations and have assured that adequate security measures will be put in place. They recognize the importance of allowing citizens to express their grievances but stress that this must be done in a non-violent manner. IGP Egbetokun highlighted that providing the police with comprehensive information about planned protests will help avoid clashes and misunderstandings between law enforcement and protestors.
Egbetokun appealed to citizens to consider the national interest and shun any nationwide protests, suggesting that all levels of government are currently addressing issues leading to public unrest. He called for trust and patience from the public, indicating that authorities are working diligently to tackle various socio-economic challenges that have led to the planned protests.
Furthermore, the IGP noted that police are not just concerned with preventing violence but are also focused on creating an environment where peaceful protests can take place without fear of disruption. Cooperation between protest organizers and law enforcement is seen as essential to this goal.
Conclusion
The message from the Nigeria Police Force is clear - while the right to peaceful assembly is upheld, it must not be corrupted by criminal elements. The plea for vigilance and cooperation with local authorities aims to ensure that any forthcoming demonstrations can proceed without incident. As Nigeria navigates a period of social and political tension, maintaining the balance between allowing public expression and safeguarding public safety remains a top priority for the nation's law enforcement agencies.
The involvement of foreign mercenaries and malicious groups poses a significant risk, making it all the more important for citizens to stay informed and act responsibly. It is a delicate time for Nigeria, and the way protest activities are managed will have a lasting impact on the nation's social fabric.