Ahead of the planned protest by NLC scheduled to be held on 27th and 28th February 2024, the commissioner of Police in Ebonyi state CP Augustina Ogbodo has ordered massive deployment of police assets across the state to ensure adequate security and safety during the protest and to ensure that the protest is not infiltrated by hoodlums.
The CP in a statement issued by the command acting Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu in Abakaliki said the measure was taken in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
The commissioner of Police however warned all intending protesters that
"any form of violent protest is unlawful and will be met with zero tolerance".
The statement explained that the CP, during an interaction with the labour leaders on February 26, 2024 "explored strategies to conduct the protest without disturbances".
It partly reads, "In an effort to guarantee a smooth protest, the Commissioner of Police (CP) convened a penultimate meeting with the labour leaders on February 26, 2024. They explored strategies to conduct the protest without disturbances".
"The CP emphasized that safeguarding lives and properties, including the safety of the protesters, is a fundamental duty of the police". However, she also underscored that while citizens have the right to engage in peaceful demonstrations, any form of violent protest is unlawful and will be met with zero tolerance.
"The Commissioner of Police has ordered Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Teams commanders to conduct patrols that would reinforce public confidence. These patrols would be coordinated with other sister security agencies to guarantee comprehensive policing of the state".
"The CP enjoined those who will participate in the protest to conduct themselves peacefully and assures Ebonyians of the command's commitment to upholding the rights of the citizens and the rule of law while urging them to go about their lawful business without any fear or intimidation while remaining vigilant and reporting any untoward situation to the nearest Police Station or the command control room on 07064515001".
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