The Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Bennett Igweh, has called on residents and indigenes to refrain from participating in a nationwide protest scheduled for August 1. The protest has been organized by various groups in response to the economic hardships facing the country.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Monday, Commissioner Igweh urged residents to avoid the protest, citing significant security efforts made by the police to maintain order in the FCT. He warned that participating in the protest could undermine these efforts.
“I appeal specifically to the residents and indigenes of the FCT. Lions do not destroy their dens; you will never see a lion destroying its own den. Therefore, I urge you not to join this protest. We have worked tirelessly to ensure your safety. We have combated criminals outside Abuja, in Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Niger, to keep you safe. I have lost men in these efforts. Just last week in Gidango, we lost two policemen, and two more before that. Let our sacrifices be enough for you to reconsider joining this protest,” Igweh pleaded.
He further stressed that the protest is unnecessary, highlighting the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure in the FCT. “The government has provided good roads, whether from the Minister of FCT or the President. Check the streets from Wuse to other areas, even in the hinterlands; you will see improvements. We don’t want miscreants from outside the FCT coming to destroy these developments, taking us back to where we were before. I beg of you, do not join this protest.”
Commissioner Igweh also encouraged residents to act responsibly and appreciate the police’s efforts. “Let us collectively continue to keep the FCT safe. Allow those who wish to protest to do so elsewhere. Act maturely and show gratitude for the sacrifices we have made to ensure your safety. If you do this, we will be happy and continue to provide security for you. God bless you all,” he concluded.