Massive Deployments Of Heavily-Armed Soldiers, Police, Others As Protest Is Set To Kick Off

The military and police have started a nationwide deployment of personnel ahead of the August 1 #EndBadGovernance protest organized by youths and civil society groups.

Security agencies, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), are on high alert in anticipation of the rally aimed at highlighting economic hardships faced by citizens.

The protest organizers have dismissed appeals from the Presidency and police to cancel the demonstrations. They are demanding improvements in the cost of living and a reversal of some government policies, especially the removal of the petrol subsidy. This policy change, along with ongoing security issues in farming regions, has increased transportation costs and food prices.

Despite most states distancing themselves from the protest, there is a noticeable increase in security personnel in various states and Abuja. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen. Edward Buba, confirmed the deployment of troops, stating it is a routine measure for counter-terrorism operations.

Reports indicate heightened surveillance patrols by various security agencies in Abuja. In Niger State, youths protested on Monday, a week after Governor Mohammed Bago announced they would not join the nationwide protest. The protesters blocked the Abuja-Kaduna Road but were dispersed by soldiers.

The NSCDC plans to deploy 30,000 personnel nationwide to protect public infrastructure during the protests. Commandant-General Ahmed Audi emphasized the importance of maintaining peaceful demonstrations and warned against property destruction.

In Lagos, the police have stationed officers at strategic locations, describing it as a routine exercise. However, there is an increased security presence in areas like Meiran, Ikorodu, Ikeja, and Agege.

The Department of State Security Service (DSS) detained the National Chairman of the Northern Comrades Movement of Nigeria, Jabir Yaro, and four others in Kaduna, raising concerns about the government’s response to the protests.

In Enugu State, soldiers are stationed at strategic points, including the Akanu Ibiam International Airport. The Imo command has deployed operatives for a “15-day show of force and confidence-building patrol” across the state.

The NSCDC in Anambra State has deployed 1,190 officers and men ahead of the protest. The Akwa Ibom State Police command has also strengthened security in Uyo metropolis.

In Delta State, police have deployed personnel to prevent any breakdown of law and order, and the Kano State Police Command has asked protest groups to provide details of their routes and assembly points.

The Nigerian Correctional Service has increased security at its facilities to prevent attacks similar to those during the #EndSARS protests in 2020.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, directed senior officers to protect protesters and emphasized the need for peaceful demonstrations. The Nigerian Bar Association also called for dialogue to address the economic situation.

The United Action Front of Civil Society urged citizens to hold the government accountable for any unintended outcomes of the protests and called for proactive measures to address citizens’ demands. These include reversing fuel prices, reducing government spending, and replacing the current constitution through a democratic process.