Police Cite Intelligence Reports, Warn Protest Could Be Hijacked by Hoodlums and Threaten Public Safety in Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to suspend its planned protest scheduled for Tuesday, citing alleged security threats and intelligence reports suggesting possible infiltration by violent groups.
According to the force, credible intelligence indicates that hoodlums and members of proscribed groups may hijack the planned demonstration, leading to a breakdown of law and order in Abuja. The Command warned that such infiltration could endanger lives, damage public and private property, and disrupt peace within the nation’s capital.
In a statement issued on Monday, the FCT Police Command emphasized that while it recognizes and respects the constitutional right of citizens to peaceful assembly and protest, the current security situation necessitates caution. The police advised the NLC and its affiliates to consider suspending or rescheduling the protest in the interest of public safety.
The planned protest is reportedly a solidarity rally in support of striking workers in the Federal Capital Territory, particularly those under the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), who have been protesting unresolved labour issues, including unpaid entitlements and welfare concerns.
The police further called on labour leaders to engage in dialogue with relevant government authorities rather than proceeding with the protest, stressing that intelligence reports point to a high risk of the protest being hijacked by criminal elements.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Labour Congress has yet to officially announce whether it will comply with the police request or proceed with the protest as scheduled.
The situation continues to generate tension in Abuja, as residents and commuters express concern over the potential impact of the protest on movement, security, and daily economic activities within the Federal Capital Territory.
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