Amid the ongoing 24-hour curfew in Jos, Plateau State, Commissioner of Police Olugbemiga Adesina has directed the increased deployment of officers throughout the city.
In a statement on Monday, the CP explained that the decision was prompted by security intelligence indicating that hoodlums were attempting to hijack the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests to create chaos in the state. The statement, issued by the command’s spokesman, read:
“Following the 24-hour curfew imposed by the Plateau State Government due to the actions of unscrupulous elements amidst the peaceful protests, the Plateau State Police Command has significantly increased officer presence in Jos and Bukuru to prevent any further disruption of law and order.
“Our intelligence suggests that hoodlums are planning to incite violence and potentially exploit the peaceful protests to loot shops in the commercial areas of the state.
“The Plateau State Police Command is dedicated to maintaining peace and will not permit any individual or group to destabilize the state. We are resolute in our constitutional duty to protect lives, property, and public safety, and we are fully committed to thwarting any criminal activities.”
The statement urged residents to adhere to the curfew directives, with a warning that those who do not comply will face arrest and prosecution.
The statement read, “The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, psc, calls on Plateau residents to follow the state government’s curfew. Anyone who violates this directive will be arrested and prosecuted under the current laws.
“Our warning to miscreants and troublemakers is clear: leave Plateau State or be prepared to face the full force of the law, as we are determined to take action against you.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activities.”
Reports that the state government had imposed a 24-hour curfew in Jos North and Jos South LGAs following an attempt by suspected hoodlums to loot property under the guise of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest.