Protests : FCT NSCDC Warns Against Attack On Public Utilities

Following the directive of the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC on the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure (CNAI) during the planned nationwide protest, the FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu has warned anyone planning to attack public utilities in the Territory to have a change of plan or face the full wrath of the law.

Odumosu gave the warning while addressing Heads of Departments, Units, Area Commanders and Divisional Officers during an emergency meeting at the Command Headquarters, Abuja on the need to protect public and private property and ensure that the protest is not hijacked by miscreants and mischief makers.

He directed an immediate deployment of 5000 personnel of his command to cover all the nooks and crannies of the FCT.

He said although peaceful protest is the civic right of every citizen, the fear of it being hijacked to cause violence, looting, arson, destruction, and unleash mayhem on law abiding citizens necessitated the call for peace enforcement and prevention of violent insurrection.

“Although every Nigerian has the right to a peaceful protest, such protests must be done without the break down of law and order”.

“As a Command therefore, we are committed to ensuring that law abiding residents of Abuja move about their legitimate business without fear of being attacked, intimidated or molested by the protesters,” he said.

Odumosu also called on the organisers of the planned protest to embrace dialogue, stating that much more will be achieved on the round table than embarking on actions that are detrimental to public peace and safety.

“Our job is to provide robust security before, during and after the protests for all residents, visitors and CNAI in the FCT.

“There is a high chance of breakdown of law and order, and because the FCT is the seat of power and host to the diplomatic headquarters of countries of the world, everything must be done professionally to manage and contain the situation” Dr Odumosu noted.

To further ensure that all hands are on deck at this critical time, the Commandant directed that all personnel on leave or pass be recalled for this all important national assignment.

He insisted that 24 hours surveillance of Critical National Assets is a top priority and directed that the NSCDC operational guidelines must be followed to the later to bring perpetrators to book.

He charged personnel to work in synergy with other security agencies on the field, and to exhibit a great amount of decorum and civility while interfacing with the peaceful protesters.

“You must develop an emotional shock absorber against provocation and unnecessary confrontations by protesters”.

“Be tactful, polite and diplomatic in your engagement, your duty is to ensure and maintain a peaceful protest” the commandant said.

He insisted that rules of engagement must be strictly adhered to and warned that the Commandant General has banned the use of live ammunition on any protester, hence, any officer who acts in defiance of this order will face severe sanctions.

PR/Nkiru Njemanze