As the hunger protest enter day two following the violence recorded yesterday, the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Olukayode Egbetokun, has placed all police units on red alert for any eventuality. More so, the police chief is also considering seeking assistance from the Nigerian military to stop the violent protesters in some states.
Mr Egbetokun stated this yesterday in Abuja, FCT during a press briefing, saying there is no alternative to peace.
According to him, the events in some major cities in the country on Day-1 of the protest showed that the protest had turned to be mass uprising and looting contrary to the claim that it was a peaceful protest.
He noted that those who were in the forefront of promoting the idea of the protest refused to turn out to lead it.
Instead, hoodlums have been let loose on innocent Nigerians and their hard-earned businesses and property being looted and destroyed.
The police boss said the motive of the rioters was basically two: to loot and destroy both private and government property.
The IG noted that so far, the destruction had been mind-boggling, adding that there were destruction in Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT, Niger and Jigawa States.
He said police stations had been destroyed with attempts in some states to take over government houses and looting government infrastructures.
This is as several warehouses and shops had so far been looted and in several instances, completely destroyed.
“In the light of the current situation, the Nigeria Police Force has placed all units on red alert.
“Our officers are fully mobilised and prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any further threats to public safety and order, the police Chief reiterated.
Egbetokun said, “We remain committed and resolute to protecting life and property and ensuring that law and order are maintained across the nation”.
He called on all the groups in whatever name they may be hiding the guise of exercising a right provided in the constitution to destabilise the country, to remember that the same constitution imposed on them to obey the laws of the land.
According to him, the Police are mounted and ready to respond appropriately to the unfolding situation and will get assistance from other security agencies, including the military if the need arises.
Meanwhile, he appealed to the law abiding citizens amongst them to remain calm and cooperate with the police and other security agencies.
”Your safety is our top priority and we will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure continued peace and stability in our country,” he said. (NAN)