Protest: We won’t allow faceless demonstrators in Anambra, CP Warns as UN predicts hijack

Chinedum Treasure

Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam has warned against violence and criminal activities during the planned nationwide protest slated for August 1.

He said Police would only protect peaceful protesters, warning that faceless persons would not be allowed to protest in any form or manner.

Addressing reporters on Friday, the CP
noted that protests have historically failed to solve problems, insisting that protesters must identify themselves.

Obono paraded various criminals, including kidnappers and alleged Eastern Security Network (ESN) members, and showcased arms and locally made bombs used by the hoodlums, in what looked a harvest of criminals.

He said the parade was a display of the command’s efforts to curb criminal activity in the state.

The CP warned against spreading misinformation and disinformation, urging the public to report criminal issues to the police.

He thanked the people of the State for providing useful information that had led to the arrest of some hoodlums.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Department of Safety and Security has warned that the planned protests in Nigeria may be hijacked by groups with ulterior motives.

A threat and risk assessment finding dated July 19 expressed concerns about the possibility of violence, citing past instances where similar protests in Nigeria escalated, including: Violent protests in the South-East and South-South regions in February 2023; vandalism of bank branches and ATM points; blocking of major roads

The UN warning highlights the potential risks associated with the planned protests and the need for caution and vigilance.

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