22nd October, 2023
The Police Command in Benue has warned that it would not approve any form of protest in the state for the time being.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene made the announcement on Sunday.
Anene revealed that the command is aware of a planned protest by a group of persons in the state.
She stated that the planned protest was a ploy to sabotage efforts of the security agencies to manage the present fragile security situation in Benue.
The police spokesperson noted that any protest at this time would avail hoodlums and other criminal minded persons an opportunity to cause mayhem.
Anene appealed to the ‘intending protesters’ to refrain from such actions as the environment was not conducive for any protest.
The PPRO said: “Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) have been directed to tighten up security in their areas of responsibility and resist any efforts of protesters to encourage any breach of peace.
“Stakeholders including; traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth leaders and parents are advised to warn their children/wards to desist from any form of protest at this sensitive time.”
Anene assured the people of the state of the command’s commitment to fight crime and enjoined the people to avail useful and timely information to the police for prompt action.