The police command in Yobe has issued a warning about the potential infiltration of the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protest by Boko Haram terrorists.
In a statement released on Saturday, DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, the command’s spokesman, reported that intelligence suggests foreign mercenaries may be hired to cause destruction during the protest.
Abdulkarim urged potential protesters to exercise caution, highlighting recent insurgency activities in Gujba Local Government Area, including an explosive device explosion, which have raised security concerns.
The statement read, “As Yobe state recovers from insurgency, the commissioner of police, CP Garba Ahmed, acknowledges citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.
“While we alert citizens to sinister motives, even peaceful protests at this time may be ill-timed. Recent insurgency activities in Gujba LGA, including an improvised explosive device explosion, have raised concerns.
“We are unprepared to face additional security challenges,” he said and warned that criminals trying to hide under the protest to destabilise the state would face the wrath of the law.”
While acknowledging citizens’ right to peaceful assembly, the police stressed that recent security challenges make additional disruptions particularly concerning.
The police have requested that organizers of the protest provide detailed information, including proposed routes, assembly points, and contact details, to facilitate security arrangements and minimize risks.
The statement added, “By providing this information, we can deploy adequate personnel and resources, designate specific routes and areas, establish clear communication channels, and minimise the risk of violence, property damage, or criminal activity.
“We encourage protesters to cooperate with the police, obey the law, and adhere to global best practices for peaceful assembly. We are committed to working with all to promote peaceful expression and maintain public order.”
(NAN)
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