The Sokoto State Police Command arrested 81 miscreants during a planned nationwide protest held on Thursday in Sokoto, the state capital.
The arrests were made following reports of unrest and vandalism.
In a statement released on Friday, the State Commissioner of Police, Ali Hayatu Kaigama, assured residents of adequate security measures and urged them to avoid any form of criminality during the protests.
“In a commendable swift action, professionalism, and dedication to public safety, the Sokoto State Police Command, in synergy with other security agencies in the State, successfully apprehended eighty-one (81) miscreants,” Kaigama said.
The Commissioner noted that the arrested individuals had initially disguised themselves as peaceful protesters, mostly comprising young people.
The protest began under close security watch early in the day, but around 3 PM, the situation escalated into violence.
Billboards in front of the Government House and iron railings on major roads were vandalized.
“In the quest to maintain law and order within the State and to avoid further breaking of shops and looting of warehouses, among other nefarious activities, the Joint Patrol was able to make the arrests,” Kaigama explained.
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of maintaining public order while acknowledging the residents’ right to protest.
“We respect the right of citizens to protest, but we frown upon the destruction of public infrastructure. Any violent protesters caught destroying public property will be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.
