*PLANNED PROTEST: HEADS OF SECURITY AGENCIES CONVENE STRATEGIC ROUNDTABLE, SETS A ROADMAP FOR ENSURING SAFETY AND SECURITY*
By Musbahu Bala Cediyar Yan Gurasa
*… As Adequate Security Arrangements are Put in Place to Ensure No Breakdown of Law and Order; CP Dogo Calls on the Law-Abiding People of Kano State to Remain Patriotic*
On 27th of July, 2024, the Kano State Police Command convened a strategic roundtable with all the heads of security agencies including the military in the State to strategize and reinforce security measures to safeguard public safety as the nation gears up for planned demonstrations.
2. The meeting stem from the recent development surrounding the protest threats where some groups call for violent protest while some individuals promote peaceful protests with violent undertones, raising concerns about their sincerity
3. The Police Command while commending patriots who have withdrawn from the protest due to the apparent sinister motives and ignorance of those calling for violence, also note those who have spoken out against any form of protest at this critical juncture, fearing enemies of our State may be manipulating the process. It was confirmed that their fears are genuine, as credible intelligence revealed enemies of the State are in this planned protest.
4. On this note, the Police Command in liaison with the military and other security agencies is fully prepared to ensure no breakdown of law and order. We must also urge the law-abiding people of the State to remain patriotic and to rethink joining any protest group as it has become clear that even a peaceful protest at this time may be ill-timed, especially with the current issues in Kano State.
5. While we respect the right to protest, we strictly warn against any form of violence, vandalism, or disruption of Government property, private businesses, and public peace. Any individual found engaging in such unlawful activities will be swiftly dealt with in accordance with the law.
6. The Police Command stands ready to work with organizers and participants to ensure a peaceful and orderly protest that respects the rights and safety of all individuals. All groups planning to participate in the protest should provide the Command with the following information:
i. Proposed protest routes and assembly points
ii. Expected duration of the protest
iii. Names and contact details of protest leaders and organizers
iv. Measures to prevent hijacking by criminal elements, including key identifiers for potential troublemakers
7. By providing this information, the Police will be able to:
i. Deploy adequate personnel and resources to ensure public safety
ii. Designate specific routes and areas for the protest to avoid conflicts with other events or activities
iii. Establish clear communication channels with protest leaders to address any concerns or issues that may arise
iv. Minimize the risk of violence, property damage, or other criminal activity
8. In case of emergencies or to report any suspicious activity related to the planned protest, please contact the Kano Police Command through the following phone numbers; 08032419754, 08123821575, 09029292926.
