The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has assured residents of the nation’s capital city, Abuja, of a hitch-free and secure independence day celebration despite plans by FearlessOctober1 Protest organisers.
The FCT Police Command gave the assurance in a statement on Monday by its Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh.
The Police disclosed that it has strategically deployed adequate personnel and equipment throughout Abuja ahead of the country’s 64th Independence Day celebration.
Adeh assured that both operatives and equipment are in place to ensure FCT residents enjoy a hitch-free Independence Day celebration.
The statement added that the deployment will include Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) personnel, anti-riot equipment, and visibility policing, among others.
The statement further added that traffic diversions will be implemented in areas expected to experience large crowds, including Central Area and Eagle Square.
The Police spokesperson urged residents to remain vigilant, and report any suspicious movements or activities to the FCT Police emergency lines.
The assurance comes amidst plans by some Nigerians to stage a #FearlessInOctober1 protest against the hardship in Nigeria caused by the economic policies of the present administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the naira.
Organizers of the #FearlessOctober1 protest have declared that the police, Department of State Services, and military will not deter them from carrying out their planned demonstration on Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, Tuesday, October 1.
In preparation for the demonstration, the organizers have formally written to Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, requesting security measures to ensure the safety of protesters.
They emphasized that the right to protest is fundamental and that they will not submit to any actions from state agents that seek to repress their voice.
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