NSCDC Warns #FreeNnamdiKanu Protesters Against Vandalism In Abuja
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FCT Command, has warned protesters to avoid vandalising national assets and infrastructure during Monday’s planned rallies in Abuja.
FCT Commandant Dr Olusola Odumosu stated in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday that officers have been deployed across the territory to safeguard critical national assets and ensure residents’ safety before, during, and after the protests.
“Citizens, whether supporting or opposing the rallies, must adhere strictly to the court order,” Odumosu said.
“The corps will not condone any form of vandalism or theft of public and private facilities, all in the name of protest.
“We are prepared as always to ensure there are no incidents of destruction of properties or threats to the peace in the territory. The deployed men were drawn from the special forces of the corps, and they have been properly briefed on the precautions to adhere to during the rally.
“Personnel had been warned to avoid accidental discharge, harassment or intimidation of anyone, as no indiscipline or over-zealousness will be condoned. We urge the deployed men to be civil by adopting the non-kinetic approach while carrying out the mandates of the corps,” he said.
The commandant also warned, “Those with the intention of hijacking or disrupting the proposed peaceful protests should desist, as anyone caught with criminal intentions will be arrested and dealt with according to the extant laws.”
The demonstrations, organised by separate groups, are aimed both for and against the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, Omoyele Sowore, along with a coalition of civil society organisations, has vowed to proceed with the protest demanding Kanu’s release.
Kanu, facing seven charges including terrorism and treasonable felony, has been in the custody of the Department of State Services since June 2021.
He was first arrested in 2015, granted bail in 2017, and later fled after a military operation at his Abia State residence.
Despite several court rulings ordering his release, the Federal Government has yet to comply, fuelling ongoing public outrage.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
