The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, FCT Command, has warned protesters against vandalising Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, CNAI, in the Federal Capital Territory during planned protests on Monday.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NSCDC FCT Commandant, Dr Olusola Odumosu, urged citizens participating in the rallies to adhere to the provisions of the court order. The protests are related to the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB. Separate groups have organised demonstrations for and against his release.

Dr Odumosu emphasized that the NSCDC will not tolerate any form of vandalism or theft of public and private facilities during the protests. The corps has deployed officers and men to protect CNAI and ensure the safety of residents across the FCT. The deployed personnel, drawn from the special forces of the corps, have been briefed on the precautions to take during the rally.

The commandant warned that anyone caught with criminal intentions, such as hijacking or disrupting the peaceful protests, will be arrested and dealt with according to the law. He also instructed the deployed men to avoid accidental discharge, harassment, or intimidation of anyone, emphasizing the need for a non-kinetic approach.

The protests are expected to take place on Monday, with different groups expressing varying opinions on the release of Nnamdi Kanu. The NSCDC’s deployment of personnel aims to prevent incidents of destruction of properties or threats to peace in the territory. By urging protesters to adhere to the court order and warning against vandalism, the corps seeks to maintain law and order in the FCT.

The situation will be closely monitored, and the NSCDC is prepared to take necessary actions to ensure the protection of residents and Critical National Assets. The commandant’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of peaceful protests and the need for citizens to respect the law and public facilities. As the protests are set to take place, the NSCDC’s actions will be crucial in maintaining stability and preventing any potential disruptions in the FCT.