As Nigerians prepare for the massive protest against economic hardship scheduled for Thursday, August 1,2024 both military and paramilitary organisations have staged a show of force around Osogbo, the capital of Osun State.
This demonstration of strength is aimed at deterring any potential troublemakers during the protest.
On Wednesday morning, around 10:00 a.m., a convoy of approximately twenty-five trucks, including armed soldiers, conventional and mobile police officers, Directorate of State Security Services (DSS) personnel, and officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), paraded the town.
The display included the singing of militant songs as a warning to any elements that might attempt to hijack the protest.
In an interview with newsmen in Osogbo, Mrs Yemisi Opalola, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, emphasised that the show of force was intended to assure citizens that their lives and property are secure from potential disruptions.
“We want to assure the people of Osun State that their safety is our priority. We are prepared to maintain peace and security and prevent any acts that could disturb the tranquilly of the state,” Opalola stated.
Opalola also warned against hooliganism, bullying, oppression, and any behaviour that could undermine the peace of the state.
She appealed to protesters to conduct themselves maturely during the demonstration.
Additionally, the NSCDC has deployed 2,050 personnel to provide comprehensive security coverage for lives and property during the protest.
The state commandant of the NSCDC, Michael Akintayo Adaralewa, made the following statement at a press conference in Osogbo:
“The personnel deployed for this important assignment have been briefed accordingly. They will conduct themselves in a manner that respects fundamental human rights, upholds the dignity of all individuals, and follows international best practices.”
He added, “I also want to call on youths and other groups participating in this planned protest to respect the rights of non-protesters and avoid actions that could disrupt their daily activities. Please refrain from blocking major roads or highways.”
Adaralewa further emphasised, “I urge protesters to refrain from destroying critical national assets, as such actions can have devastating consequences.
“As seen during the EndSARS protest, our nation is yet to recover from its effects. These assets are crucial to our nation’s development and prosperity.”
He reiterated, “Protesters must conduct activities within the bounds of the law. We warn against property destruction, looting, or any form of violence. Anyone caught engaging in such behaviour will face the full wrath of the law.”
Lastly, he encouraged citizens to provide proactive intelligence if they suspect any group plans to hijack the protest or engage in destructive behaviour.
“NSCDC has mapped out strategic locations, and personnel have been deployed to prevent any form of disruption,” he assured.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and adjust our strategy as needed. At this juncture, I want to urge parents and guardians to caution their wards and let them know the essence of engaging in peaceful protests, respecting the rights of others, and avoiding any behaviour that could lead to harm or destruction.”
He also urged, “I urge the law-abiding people of Osun State to remain calm, go about their daily activities, and report any suspicious behaviour to the NSCDC or any security agency in their vicinity.”
Adaralewa emphasised, “We are committed to maintaining peace and order while respecting the rights of citizens. Let’s work together to build a prosperous and harmonious nation.”
He acknowledged the current economic hardship and added, “I urge citizens to be patient with the current administration. Remember, these challenges are not unique to Nigeria, and we must work together to find solutions.”
He concluded with, “Our dear country is at a very crucial juncture. The planned protest across the country is a testament to the constitutional rights of citizens; however, we must ensure that these expressions are peaceful and do not infringe on the rights of others.
“Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Osun State Command, under my watch, is committed to maintaining law and order while respecting the constitutional rights of citizens.
“As you are aware, the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure is one of the core mandates of the Corps.”
