The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned individuals planning demonstrations calling for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to desist from any form of protest around Aso Rock and its surrounding areas.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the warning was in compliance with an order of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
He stated that the court, in a case between the Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, on October 17, prohibited any form of protest within and around Aso Rock and its surrounding areas.
“The order restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs.
“Other area are the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.
“Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act, capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order,” he said.
The police spokesperson added that the Force would ensure the smooth flow of traffic, safeguard lives and property, and guarantee the security of all law-abiding citizens.
According to him, anyone or any group using protests as a disguise to incite violence, possess or use dangerous weapons, destroy public or private property, kidnap, or engage in actions likely to result in loss of life or serious injury will face strict consequences.
He explained that offenders would be apprehended, thoroughly investigated, and prosecuted under the appropriate criminal laws, including those concerning public order, violent behaviour, and terrorism where applicable.
Hundeyin stated that individuals who use social media or other platforms to incite others would also be investigated and prosecuted based on digital evidence.
He said the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, had instructed the Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and relevant operational units to ensure strict enforcement of the court order.
Hundeyin added that the I-G had further directed the CP to sustain visible and strategic deployments across sensitive areas to maintain the safety of residents and the smooth running of legitimate activities within the FCT.
He advised the organisers and participants of the planned protest to steer clear of the restricted zones identified by the court and to refrain from carrying weapons, engaging in provocative actions, or encouraging others to break the law.
Hundeyin also appealed to protesters to express their grievances through the courts and other lawful channels instead of resorting to street demonstrations.
The police spokesperson reaffirmed that adequate security measures had been implemented to protect the lives and property of law-abiding citizens.
He urged individuals not participating in the protest to continue their normal activities without fear, assuring that anyone found violating the court’s order or the law would be arrested and prosecuted.
