One police officer has been reported dead and many others sustained varying degrees of injuries during the protest against economic hardship in states where violent erupted during the demonstration across the country.
The deceased police officer was said to be among the law enforcement officers deployed to quell violence that erupted during the hunger protest in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, Gombe and others.
Meanwhile, the Police has threatened that more teargas canisters could be shot going forward if the protesters engage in any form of violence, looting and vandalism across the country.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun disclosed this on Thursday during a press briefing in Abuja while reviewing activities of the law enforcement agency across the country.
He said: “Despite our suspicions, we showed good faith through professional conduct by providing security at strategic locations all aimed at ensuring peaceful conduct during the protest as the promoters pledged. Our men deployed nationwide went out with a clear brief to ensure that no one is unnecessarily harassed or intimidated. In places where there were court orders, we gave instructions for observance of same.
“Regrettably, events in some major cities today showed that what was being instigated was mass uprising and looting, not protest. Those who were in the forefront of promoting the idea of the protest were not around to lead it. Hoodlums have been let loose on innocent Nigerians and their hard-earned businesses and property looted and destroyed. The motive of the rioters was basically two; loot and destroy both private and government property. The destruction so far has been mind-boggling. There has been destruction in Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT Abuja, Niger, Jigawa. Police stations have been destroyed, there has been attempts to take over government houses, looting of government infrastructures, several warehouses and shops have so far been looted and, in several instances, completely destroyed.
“In spite of the refusal of the protesters, for instance in FCT to adhere to a court order requesting that protest in Abuja should be at the National Stadium, they trooped into the streets, and yet the police provided security for them. At no point did we breach their fundamental rights even as they breached court order.
“In places like FCT, Kaduna, Kano and Gombe, among others, we recorded incidents of unprovoked attacks on security personnel, where one policeman has been reported murdered and others seriously injured.
“We alerted earlier on that terror elements may take advantage of the protests to infiltrate the crowd of protesters with suicide bombers. Yesterday in Lagos, our EOD team was informed of a suspected IED on Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja. The team responded swiftly and rendered safe what turned out to be an improvised explosive device (IED).
“Today in Borno State, we recorded one incident of explosion which occurred in the crowd of protesters killing 4 instantly and severely injuring 34 others, many of whom are presently on danger list.
“We wish to advise law abiding citizens of Nigeria to heed and not dismiss warnings given by the police and other security agencies which were based on credible and actionable security intelligence.
“In the 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. We remain committed and resolute to protecting lives and property and ensuring that law and order are maintained across the nation.
“Groups who are hiding under the guise of exercise of a right provided in the Constitution to destabilize the country should remember that the same Constitution imposed on them the duty to obey the laws of the land and respect the rights of other citizens. The Police is equipped to respond appropriately to the unfolding situation and will get assistance from other security agencies, including the military if the need arises.
“We appeal to all citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the Police and other security agencies during this challenging period. Your safety is our top priority, and we will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure continued peace and stability in our country”.
