The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has warned members of the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now movement and other groups planning to protest in Abuja to refrain from acts of vandalism or destruction of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI).
Speaking ahead of the planned protest, the NSCDC FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, said intelligence reports indicate that Mr. Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters, is mobilising protesters for a rally on Monday to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Odumosu cautioned that while citizens have the right to peaceful assembly, they must do so within the confines of the law and in accordance with court directives. “The Corps will not condone any form of destruction, vandalism or theft of public and private facilities in the name of protest,” he stated.
He disclosed that the Corps has deployed a large contingent of personnel across the Federal Capital Territory to safeguard key infrastructure and ensure the safety of residents before, during, and after the demonstration. “We are fully prepared to prevent any breach of peace or damage to public property. Our personnel, drawn from specialised units, have been adequately briefed on their duties and the need for restraint,” Odumosu added.
The Commandant stressed that officers have been directed not to harass or intimidate law-abiding citizens, but warned that any attempt by miscreants to hijack the protest or engage in criminal acts will be met with firm resistance.
Odumosu urged residents to remain calm and continue their normal activities, assuring that strategic deployments have been made to maintain peace and order across identified flashpoints in the city.
