In preparation for the proposed nationwide protest not to go violent, no fewer than 1190 officers and man have been deployed by Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Anambra State.
This was disclosed by Head, Media and Tactical Operations of the formation, Godwin Okadigbo in a statement.
The state Commandant, Maku Olatunde, held a meeting with other security agencies heads in Awka on Sunday 28, July, 2024, said the command remains committed and unrelenting in maintaining law and order before, during, and after the planned protest.
He explained that 350 personnel are for the anti-sit at home order operations on Monday, while 840 personnel are to resist all forms of violent protests and lawlessness, as well as prevent vandalization of Critical National Assets and infrastructure.
The statement reads: “In line with a marching order given to us by the Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, to stand firm on our core mandate as the lead agency statutorily responsible for protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, the Command will not remain passive or indifferent in the face of violent activities that threaten to disrupt the peaceful co-existence of all Anambra residents or destroy our National Critical Assets and Infrastructure
“Instead, we will take proactive measures to prevent and counteract such actions, ensuring the safety and security of Anambra citizens and the protection of such critical assets.”
The commandant, however, noted that citizens have a right to protest, but charged the organizers to operate within the ambit of the law.
He said: “Individuals contemplating illegal acts during the protest, such as tampering with government assets or infrastructure will face severe legal consequences.
“Disrupting social and economic activities in the state, particularly at strategic facilities like airports and hospitals, and hindering essential service providers from carrying out their duties, is strictly prohibited.
“Those who ignore these warnings will be held accountable and face the full force of the law.”