Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has issued a firm warning against the continuation of looting and destruction of both government and private properties, following the chaos witnessed on the first day of the nationwide protests.
In a live broadcast last night, IGP Egbetokun emphasized that the police are fully prepared to respond appropriately to any such incidents and may call upon other security agencies to help restore calm and order.
Expressing disappointment, the IGP noted that despite warnings for peaceful demonstrations, certain individuals resorted to violence, leading to the destruction of police stations, government and private properties, and the tragic death of a police officer.
He stated, “Regrettably, events in some major cities today showed that what was being instigated was mass uprising and looting, not protest. Those who were at the forefront of promoting the idea of the protest were not around to lead it. Instead, hoodlums were let loose on innocent Nigerians and their hard-earned businesses and property. The motive of the rioters was to loot and destroy both private and government property. The destruction so far has been mind-boggling.”
The affected areas include Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT Abuja, Niger, and Jigawa, where police stations were damaged, government buildings targeted, and numerous warehouses and shops looted or destroyed.
In response, the Nigeria Police Force has placed all units on high alert, with officers mobilized to act swiftly and decisively against any further threats to public safety and order.
The IGP stressed the importance of adhering to the laws of the land and respecting the rights of others, stating, “Groups who are hiding under the guise of exercising a right provided in the constitution to destabilise the country should remember that the same constitution imposed on them the duty to obey the laws of the land and respect the rights of other citizens. The Police is equipped to respond appropriately to the unfolding situation and will get assistance from other security agencies, including the military if needed.”
IGP Egbetokun also urged citizens to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement during this challenging time, assuring them that their safety is the top priority. “We appeal to all citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the Police and other security agencies during this challenging period. Your safety is our top priority, and we will continue taking all necessary measures to ensure peace and stability in our country,” he concluded.
