The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Plateau State has issued a stern warning ahead of the planned nationwide protest, stating that anyone caught wielding a weapon will be treated as a criminal.
The warning was delivered by the NSCDC Commandant in the state, Mr. Alexander Barunde, during an address to officers and personnel in Jos on Wednesday.
While acknowledging the right of citizens to protest against government policies, Barunde emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order.
He called on the protest organizers to prevent mischief makers from using the protest as a cover to cause chaos or engage in criminal activities.
“I’m calling on the organizers of the planned protest not to create a restive situation or give room for mischief makers to unleash anarchy on the society,” Barunde stated.
“It must be violence-free, and the protesters must eschew every negative tendency to create anarchy; there is room for dialogue with the government over every concern.”
The Commandant further warned that any individual found carrying weapons during the protest would be dealt with as a criminal.
“Any protester wielding a weapon of any kind will be treated as a criminal element with a different motive; such a person will be arrested and decisively dealt with in accordance with the law,” he asserted.
Barunde also urged the citizens of Plateau State to act responsibly during the protest, keeping the state’s welfare in mind.
He stressed the need for the protest to be conducted peacefully and without incidents that could harm public and private property.
Addressing the officers and men of the NSCDC, Barunde charged them to uphold the rule of law, adhere to ethical standards, and respect human dignity in their interactions with the protesters.
“Every law-abiding and patriotic citizen of Plateau should have the interest of the state in dealing with the protest and the uncertainties associated with it,” he concluded.
