The police have warned intending protesters, agitating for the release of IPOB headpin Mazi Nnamdi Kalu, against any form of protest around the Aso Rock and its environs.

A statement by the national spokesman for the police, Benjamin Hundeyin, said the warning followed an order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division.

He said the court, in a suit between  the Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, on October 17, restrained any form of protest around the Aso Rock and its environs.

“The order restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs.

“Other areas are the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way. Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order,” he said.

The police spokesman said the force would ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens.

According to him, any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively.

He said offenders would be arrested, subjected to full investigation, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws, including laws relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism, where applicable.

Mr Hundeyin said those who incite others via social media or other platforms would be investigated and prosecuted, using digital evidence.

He said IGP Kayode Egbetokun had directed the police commissioner in charge of the Federal Capital Territory and relevant operational commands to ensure strict enforcement of the court’s order.

Mr Hundeyin said the IGP had directed the commissioner to maintain visible and strategic deployments across vulnerable locations and ensure the safety of residents and lawful activities in the FCT. He urged organisers of the protest and participants to avoid the restricted areas specified by the court and refrain from carrying weapons, engaging in provocative conduct, or encouraging others to breach the law.

Mr Hundeyin also urged the protesters to channel their grievances through the courts and other lawful avenues rather than the streets. The police spokesman said adequate security arrangements had been made to protect the lives and property of law-abiding Nigerians.

He urged those not engaging in the protest to go about their lawful businesses without fear, as anyone found to be in breach of the court’s order or in contempt of the law would be arrested and prosecuted.

(NAN)