Yobe police: Insurgents planning to execute heinous acts during planned protest

Garba Ahmed, Yobe commissioner of police, says insurgents intend to take advantage of the planned nationwide protest.

In a statement on Sunday by Dungus Abdulkarim, the police command spokesperson, Ahmed acknowledged the rights of Nigerians to peaceful demonstration.

He however said with the recent insurgency in Gujba LGA, including an IED explosion, the state is not ready to face more security challenges.

“We have received intelligence that insurgents plan to exploit planned protests to execute heinous acts,” the statement reads.

“We commend patriots who have withdrawn from protests due to sinister motives and ignorance of those calling for violence.

“We note concerns about foreign mercenaries’ involvement in the planned protest.”

The police commissioner urged citizens to exercise caution and think twice before joining any protest group.

“While we alert citizens to sinister motives, even peaceful protests at this time may be ill-timed,” he added.

“We warn clandestine groups plotting to destabilize the state and hoodlums seeking to exploit protests for criminal agendas.

“To facilitate a successful and incident-free protest, please provide the following information: Proposed protest routes and assembly points; expected duration of the protest; names and contact details of protest leaders and organizers; and measures to prevent hijacking by criminal elements.

“By providing this information, we can deploy adequate personnel and resources, designate specific routes and areas, establish clear communication channels, and minimize 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.”