Shi’ites, others planning to disrupt Independence Day celebration- Police

FCT Police Commissioner, Benneth Igweh

The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 7, Benneth Igweh, has accused the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, popularly known as Shi’ite, and other criminal elements of planning to disrupt the Independence Day celebration within his area of responsibility.

Igweh added that their plans were uncovered following credible intelligence by the Federal Capital Territory Police command.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, Igweh warned the group not to hold any procession on Tuesday, describing them as a proscribed organisation.

He said, “We have a lot of intelligence that some miscreants… including members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, want to be on the street.

“I want to say that because they have been proscribed, they do not have rights to assemble; they do not have the right of procession; they do not have rights to protest. We are going to readily wait for them and their groups, who may like to foment trouble of any kind.

“So tomorrow, we are going to ensure your safety. We are ready for that. We will not shy away from our responsibilities and if anybody decides to join the proscribed group, so be it.”

He, however, assured residents of the FCT of the command’s readiness to provide security, particularly within the ambit of the law.

To further ensure the safety of residences, Igweh revealed plans by the police to conduct “a few stop and search”, which he noted could cause traffic interceptions.

He also warned those who are not directly obligated to participate in the Independence Day celebration to stay off the street.

When asked if the FCT command is prepared for the October 1 #EndHungerProtest, the AIG said, the command has yet to be notified of any protest on Tuesday.

“Even if they write to our bosses. They would have informed us. All forms of protests are expected to be conducted within the ambit of the law, and those who participate in the unlawful protest would be treated accordingly.”