Egbetokun orders tight security for Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration

Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police, has ordered police officers deployed for Independence Day celebration to be firm and courteous in their engagements.

Nigeria will commemorate its 64th anniversary on October 1.

In a statement on Monday, Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, said Egbetokun ordered “water-tight” security across the country during the celebration.

Adejobi said the IGP also directed the arrest of miscreants planning to cause trouble during the celebration.

“As part of the IGP’s comprehensive plan to ensure a seamless celebration, the IGP has ordered the deployment of adequate human and tactical resources to enable a maximum level of security for the independence celebration,” the statement reads.

“The Police, in synergy with other security agencies, will fortify various designated event venues and the major highways across the country, to forestall any threats to lives and property and the celebration.

“Additionally, the IGP has directed all personnel deployed for various operations during the celebrations to be courteous and firm in their engagements with members of the public.

“IGP Egbetokun reiterates that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding our nation’s security, ensuring peaceful coexistence, and upholding the rule of law.”

Meanwhile, some civil society organisations (CSOs) under the aegis of #EndBadGovernance Movement, have declared October 1, 2024 as a ‘National Day of Survival’.

The CSOs called on Nigerians to engage in peaceful protests nationwide against “anti-poor policies” and prevailing economic hardship sweeping through the country.