October 1: IG places policemen on red alert

The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, has placed all officers and men of the Nigeria Police, as well as other special operatives, on red alert nationwide as part of security preparation for the Independence Day celebration.

The IG directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Command Commissioners of Police, including the Maritime Command, to ensure adequate deployment of all operational tools and manpower within their commands.

He directed them to pay special attention to shopping malls, public parks, beaches, highways and other critical infrastructure to guarantee the safety of the citizenry.

A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, in Abuja on Sunday said Abubakar assured Nigerians that the police would do everything to discharge its constitutional responsibilities of providing safe and secure environment for all, particularly during the Independence Day celebration.

 “CPs have been directed to personally ensure that key and vulnerable points are effectively protected to enable the general public enjoy the independence anniversary,” Mba stated.

The IG congratulated President Goodluck Jonathan and Nigerians, on the nation’s 53rd Independent Anniversary and saluted the courage and determination of Nigerians to build and sustain a strong nation.

The statement added, “The IG called on Nigerians to put their differences aside and continue to support the police in the face of current security challenges confronting the country.

“He enjoined all well-meaning persons and groups to cooperate with the force by providing useful information, especially with regards to the on going fight against terrorism and other forms of crimes for the mutual benefit of all.”

Checks by our correspondent indicated that key installations and public places in the Federal Capital Territory, including the National Assembly complex and the Federal Secretariat, had been placed under special police protection.

Findings also indicated that patrols would be intensified in the FCT.

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