Yobe State Police Command has issued a severe warning about potential Boko Haram infiltration into the planned #EndBadGovernance protest in August.
According to DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, the command’s spokesperson, intelligence sources indicate that foreign mercenaries have been hired to disrupt the protest, posing a considerable risk to lives and property.
The warning, issued on Saturday, July 27, stresses increased security concerns in the wake of recent insurgent activities, including an IED explosion in Gujba Local Government Area.
DSP Abdulkarim cautioned potential demonstrators to exercise caution, emphasizing that while citizens have a fundamental right to peaceful assembly, the timing of the protest could be problematic given the current security context.
“As Yobe state recovers from insurgency, the commissioner of police, CP Garba Ahmed, acknowledges citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.
“While we alert citizens to sinister motives, even peaceful protests at this time may be ill-timed. Recent insurgency activities in Gujba LGA, including an improvised explosive device explosion, have raised concerns.
“We are unprepared to face additional security challenges,” DSP Abdulkarim said.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Garba Ahmed, supports the call for caution and urges organizers to offer precise information about the demonstration.
“By providing this information, we can deploy adequate personnel and resources, designate specific routes and areas, establish clear communication channels, and minimise the risk of violence, property damage, or criminal activity.
“We encourage protesters to cooperate with the police, obey the law, and adhere to global best practices for peaceful assembly. We are committed to working with all to promote peaceful expression and maintain public order,” he added.
