Emphasizing zero tolerance for criminal behavior, the Rivers State Police Command has firmly stated its position ahead of the upcoming hunger protest slated for August 1-10 as a response to economic challenges.
Asserting the importance of lawful conduct, the police urged protesters to maintain public safety and respect the rights of others.
In a statement released in Port Harcourt, the state capital, on Wednesday, the command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, provided the cautionary message.
The statement underlined, “Monitoring the developments associated with the nationwide protests planned for August 1, 2024, the Rivers State Police Command is fully prepared to execute its responsibilities meticulously in upholding law and order during this period.
“While acknowledging citizens’ constitutional rights to assemble and protest peacefully, we remain vigilant towards potential mischief-makers seeking to exploit these protests for disruptive purposes.”
“The command praises those opting for legal channels to address the concerns raised by the organizers, cognizant of the risk of disruptive elements seizing control of the protests.”
The state police command implored both the organizers and protesters to ensure their conduct does not endanger public safety, violate security, or infringe upon the rights of others, underscoring its commitment to upholding the law and fulfilling its constitutional duty to preserve order.
Iringe-Koko highlighted that concerted efforts with other security agencies in the state are underway to prevent any breakdown in law and order prior to, during, and after the protests.
“Precautionary measures have been enacted to guarantee smooth operations, including officer training and sensitization, heightened surveillance, increased patrol presence, and the deployment of tactical units for crowd management, among various strategies.
The commitment to uphold the rights of peaceful protesters was reiterated by the command, urging organizers to maintain the protests within legal boundaries and orderly manner, while appealing to everyone to demonstrate patriotism and civic responsibility.
Encouraging citizens to collaborate with law enforcement and exercise their rights responsibly, the statement concluded with a stern warning that any unlawful behavior or disturbance to public order will be swiftly addressed.