The Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has ordered the immediate beef-up of security in the states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Igbere TV gathered that the order came on the heels of intelligence report that members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) were planning massive protests across the country.
The IMN, better known as Shiites, had in recent times had several clash with the police over the continual detention of their leader, El-Zakzaky, by the Federal Government. The last protest led to the death of a Police Deputy Commissioner and a Corps member with Channels TV, Abuja.
In a statement obtained by Igbere TV which was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, the IGP’s order came “in the face of series of violent protest and unrest by members of the El-Zakzaky group in the FCT.”
“Meanwhile, the IGP has assured citizens that proactive measures including aerial surveillance of major cities have been emplaced to ensure the safety and security of lives and property of all Nigerians.
“In addition, Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) and Commissioners of Police (CPs) nationwide have been mandated to ensure customized security arrangements are put in place in their Area of Responsibilities (AORs) to checkmate the activities of criminals and any possible threat to public peace.
“The IGP has further advised all would-be protesters to ensure they express their grievances within the ambit of the law so as not to infringe on the constitutional rights of other citizens or cause breach of public peace”, the statement added.
The police, however, urged citizens to be wary of circulating unsubstantiated security advisories capable of creating undue fear, panic and apprehension in the country.
