The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has cautioned protesters not to damage critical infrastructure during rallies scheduled for Monday in Abuja.
FCT Commandant, Dr Olusola Odumosu, gave the warning in a statement to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday. The demonstrations are being organised by different groups, both supporting and opposing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Odumosu reminded protesters to respect existing court orders regulating public assemblies. He said any attempt to vandalise or steal public or private property under the guise of protest would be met with firm action.
“To ensure safety, we have deployed a large number of personnel to protect Critical National Assets and Infrastructure and to maintain law and order across the FCT,” he said.
According to him, officers from the corps’ special units have been mobilised and instructed to handle the protests professionally and with restraint. He warned them against harassment, intimidation or accidental firearm discharge.
Odumosu stressed the importance of using non-kinetic measures when engaging with the public and urged protesters to remain peaceful.
However, he warned that anyone attempting to hijack the rallies or cause unrest would be arrested and prosecuted according to existing laws.
