The Yobe State Police Command has announced that Boko Haram insurgents intend to disrupt the planned nationwide protest in the state.
The Command’s spokesman, DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, stated that intelligence reports indicate that foreign mercenaries have been hired to cause destruction during the protest.
Abdulkarim urged those planning to participate in the protest to be cautious.
“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 (IED) explosion, have raised concerns. We are unprepared to face additional security challenges,” he said.
He also warned that criminals attempting to use the protest as a cover to destabilize the state would face legal consequences.
Abdulkarim emphasized that for a protest to proceed smoothly, organizers must provide details of proposed routes and assembly points.
They should also disclose the expected duration of the protest, names and contact details of 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,” Abdulkarim added. (NAN)
