Shi’ites protest: IGP orders 24-hour surveillance on FCT, environs.


Following the violent protest by members of the El-Zakzakky-led Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) otherwise known as Shi’ites, Tuesday, at the National Assembly, Abuja, which led to assault on and injury to Police personnel on lawful duty as well as wilful damage to public properties, the Inspector General of Police Mohammed  Adamu, has ordered a 24-hour surveillance in the FCT and its environs.

The Police boss in a press statement by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), DCP Frank Mba, Tuesday in Abuja, also placed Commissioners of Police (CPs) and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs)  in states contiguous to the FCT on the alert to ensure maximum security in their respective Areas of responsibility (AOR) to avert possible breach of public safety and security.

While noting that the Force was not against citizens expressing their grouse against the State, the IGP stressed that such ventilation must be done through legitimate and acceptable processes and not by taking the laws into their own hands.

He, therefore, warned that citizens should not test the collective will of the People and the State by engaging in lawless acts likely to cause the breach of the peace.  

Meanwhile, the IGP has ordered a speedy and diligent investigation into the incident as well as prompt prosecution of all the suspects arrested in connection with the incident.

Adamu reiterated his displeasure at the “unwarranted and unjustifiable” attack on, and injury to nine Police officers by members of the sect and commended the restraint, maturity and professionalism displayed by Police personnel in containing the protest.

The IGP also directed the AIG in charge of Police Medical Department to ensure that proper and prompt medical attention is given to the injured officers and wished them quick recovery.

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