Day-One Of Nationwide Protests: Destruction So Far Has Been Mind-boggling …IGP
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Despite several warnings based on actionable intelligence at its disposal indicating that some groups were mobilizing youths for violent protests with intent to create anarchy in the country, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, while assessing day one of the protests, said “the destruction so far has been mind-boggling”
The IGP who was briefing journalists in Abuja at the end of day one of the protests revealed there has been destruction in Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT Abuja, Niger, Jigawa.
According to him, Police stations have been destroyed, there has been attempts to take over government houses, looting of government infrastructures, several warehouses and shops have so far been looted and, in several instances, completely destroyed.
Egbetokun lamented that while some groups claiming to be mobilising for peaceful protests were doing so with violent undertones refusing to cooperate with the Police on measures to be taken to guarantee peaceful protest.
He noted it was on the basis of the intelligence, that Police had advised that the protests should be shelved at the instant time and where the organizers insisted on going on with the protests, they were advised to stage the protest in confined locations.
As this according to the IGP, would have enabled the police provide adequate protection for the protesters and isolate the criminals whose intention was to loot and destroy in the name of a protest.
He affirmed it is the constitutional rights of citizens to assemble and express their views on issues of national importance, but was wary about the dangers posed by agitation instigated by some individuals who have shown tendencies to be disloyal to the government of the day.
The suspicions notwithstanding, Police showed good faith through professional conduct by providing security at strategic locations all aimed at ensuring peaceful conduct during the protest as the promoters pledged; the IGP stressed.
He noted that men deployed nationwide went out with a clear brief to ensure that no one was unnecessarily harassed or intimidated and in places where there were court orders, he gave instructions for observance of same.
The IGP however, regretted that events in some major cities showed that what was being instigated was mass uprising and looting, not protest.
He reminded that the Police is equipped to respond appropriately to the unfolding situation and will get assistance from other security agencies, including the military if the need arises and appealed to all citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the Police and other security agencies during this challenging period.
The IGP, reiterated commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens saying “your safety is our top priority, and we will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure continued peace and stability in our country”.
Meanwhile, the #endbadgovernance nationwide protest enters day two.
