The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has issued a strict warning to individuals planning to protest in Abuja on Monday concerning the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The Corps strongly discouraged any acts of vandalism or damage to both government and private properties during the planned demonstrations.
Announcing this on Sunday in Abuja, Olusola Odumosu, the NSCDC FCT Commandant, underscored the agency’s commitment to protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) as a top priority.
In preparation, the Corps has deployed a significant number of officers and specialized units across strategic locations within the FCT. Their objective is to safeguard essential infrastructure and maintain public safety before, during, and after the protests.
“Any form of destruction or theft of public or private property under the pretext of protest will not be condoned,” Odumosu asserted.
He added that all personnel have been comprehensively instructed to maintain professionalism and respect while carrying out their duties. Officers are mandated to avoid harassment, intimidation, or the unwarranted use of force. The commandant emphasized that any misconduct or overzealous behavior will be strictly dealt with.
“Our teams are fully equipped and ready to prevent any acts of property damage or disturbances to peace within the territory,” Odumosu stated. “They have been directed to apply peaceful and non-aggressive tactics in the execution of their responsibilities.”
Furthermore, the commandant issued a firm warning to those who might seek to exploit the protests for illegal activities, stressing that offenders will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
This advisory comes amid escalating tensions in Abuja, where various groups are organizing rallies either supporting or opposing Kanu’s release. Kanu has been held by the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021.
He faces seven charges related to terrorism and treasonable felony, linked to his leadership of IPOB, which the federal government outlawed in 2017.
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Kanu was first apprehended in 2015, released on bail in 2017, but later fled Nigeria following a military operation on his residence in Abia State.
The forthcoming protest is spearheaded by Omoyele Sowore, founder of the #RevolutionNow campaign, alongside several civil society organizations. Despite a Federal High Court injunction banning mass protests near critical national institutions in Abuja, they have pledged to proceed with the demonstration.