The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr. Olukayode Egbetokun, has placed all police units on red alert following violent incidents during ongoing protests across the country.
Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday in Abuja, Egbetokun noted that the first day of protests in several major cities had escalated into widespread unrest, looting, and destruction of property. He emphasized that those who initially promoted the protests were notably absent from the frontlines, leaving hoodlums to wreak havoc on innocent Nigerians and their businesses.
The police chief reported that the rioters were primarily driven by the intent to loot and destroy both private and government property. He highlighted significant destruction in states including Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT, Niger, and Jigawa, with police stations attacked, government properties targeted, and numerous warehouses and shops looted.
“In light of the current situation, the Nigeria Police Force has placed all units on red alert. Our officers are fully mobilized and prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any further threats to public safety and order,” Egbetokun stated, reaffirming the police’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
He urged those attempting to destabilize the country under the guise of constitutional rights to remember their obligations to obey the law. Egbetokun also mentioned that the police are ready to collaborate with other security agencies, including the military, if necessary.
The I-G appealed to law-abiding citizens to remain calm and cooperate with security forces, assuring them that their safety remains the top priority and that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure peace and stability nationwide.
