August 1: Kaduna Police Command cautions residents, ask protesters to provide details

The Kaduna State Police Command says it is closely monitoring developments surrounding the planned protest scheduled from 1st August to 10th August.

A statement issued by the spokesman of the state Command, ASP Mansir Hassan, on Sunday, said, “We have observed that while some groups are advocating for peaceful demonstrations, others are calling for violent protests, drawing inspiration from recent events in Kenya.

“Additionally, there are individuals who claim to support peaceful protests but with undertones of violence, raising concerns about their true intentions.”

The Command commended those who have decided to withdraw from the protest, and urged citizens of Kaduna State to exercise caution and reconsider joining any protest groups.

The statement noted that while it respects the constitutional right of Nigerian citizens to peaceful assembly and protests, “a peaceful protest at this time may be ill-timed due to the potential for exploitation by groups with malicious intentions”.

“We issue a stern warning to clandestine groups plotting to destabilize the country and to hoodlums seeking to exploit the protests for their criminal agendas.

“We will not tolerate the killing of innocent citizens, the destruction of public infrastructure and private property, or the looting of businesses,” the statement added.

In the interest of public safety and order, the Command requested all groups planning to protest to provide necessary details to the Commissioner of Police.

To facilitate a successful and incident-free protest, the statement also asked for the proposed protest routes and assembly points and expected duration of the protest.

The statement said that names and contact details of protest leaders and organizers should be provided to prevent hijacking by criminal elements.

“By providing the information, the Police would be able to deploy adequate personnel and resources to ensure public safety, designate specific routes and areas for the protest to avoid conflicts with other events or activities, establish clear communication channels with protest leaders to address any concerns or issues that may arise and minimize the risk of violence, property damage, or other criminal activity.

“The Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Ali Dabigi, encourages all protesters to cooperate with the Police, obey the law, and adhere to global best practices for peaceful assembly to guarantee a safe and successful exercise of their rights.

“We are committed to working with all Nigerians to promote peaceful expression and maintain public order,” the statement noted.