The Borno State Police Command has raised an alarm over information circulating on social media about a purported protest in the state, assuring residents that necessary security measures have been put in place.
In a brief statement released in the early hours of Friday, the Spokesperson of the command, ASP Nahum Daso, said the command remains vigilant despite having no confirmed report of any planned protest.
“The Borno State Police Command is aware of information circulating on various social media platforms regarding a purported protest. At the moment, there is no confirmed report of any planned protest in the state,” Daso stated.
“However, the Command remains vigilant and has put in place necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of all residents,” he added.
Daso urged members of the public to disregard unverified information, go about their lawful activities, and remain law-abiding. The police did not specify the reasons for which the purported protest is planned.
The warning follows recent protests by members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), popularly known as Shi’ites, over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a joint US-Israeli airstrike. The group, led by Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, had protested in Lagos, Gombe, Niger, Kano, Bauchi, Yobe, and Sokoto states.
Acting Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has ordered state police commissioners to be on red alert to prevent worsening internal security challenges following the US and Israel’s war on Iran. Disu specifically directed police commissioners in the Northwest, Northeast, and Northcentral zones to heighten surveillance and intelligence gathering; strengthen collaboration with traditional and religious leaders; and enhance visibility policing around worship centres and public spaces.
