28th March, 2011
In preparation for the forthcoming elections, the police in Lagos in collaboration with the military, on Sunday staged a ‘Show of Force’ within the Lagos metropolis.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the military men and personnel of the mobile police force were armed as they paraded the highways in patrol vehicles and armoured personnel carriers.
The siren blaring patrol that went about the metropolis attracted the residents some of who rushed out to find the cause of the commotion.
Speaking to NAN on the exercise, the Lagos police spokesman, Mr. Samuel Jinadu said the show of force was to warn the populace that the security agencies were prepared for the elections.
“The security for the coming elections would not be left in the hands of the police alone. We don’t want any crisis in Lagos before, during and after elections.
“Therefore, all trouble makers, ballot box snatchers, those with criminal tendencies and in possession of illegal arms should relocate from Lagos.
“We appeal to members of the public to go about their normal businesses. We are on top of security situation in Lagos,†Jinadu said.
The police spokesman appealed to residents with useful information on suspected persons or groups to report to the police.