By Adesakin Adefemi
The Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed all Commissioners of Police in the 37 states and the Federal Capital Territory to enhance surveillance throughout the nation, with a focus on the North Central, North East, and North West regions.
This move comes in light of recent developments in the Middle East due to the ongoing global conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Disu communicated this message through spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin, who stated that the commissioners should bolster surveillance and intelligence efforts by working closely with traditional and religious leaders.
The directive is aimed at preventing any attempts by individuals or groups to take advantage of global events to incite unrest or sectarian conflict. Disu instructed senior police officials to increase visibility policing around places of worship and public areas, and to promptly address any attempts to exploit global developments.
The police have also emphasized that Nigeria will not serve as a battleground for foreign conflicts, and any attempt to import external ideological or religious tensions into the country will be met with the full force of the law.
The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly referred to as Shiites, had earlier held a peaceful protest to honor the late Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The protest was peaceful, and the police had deployed officers to key points across the country to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The Acting IGP has reassured all Nigerians of the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding lives, property, and national peace. He has called on community leaders nationwide to continue promoting peace and urged citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, reporting any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The police have implemented enhanced proactive, intelligence-led policing strategies across the nation. The move is aimed at ensuring the safety of every Nigerian and maintaining national security at all times.
The Nigeria Police Force emphasizes that it is resolute, prepared, and fully committed to ensuring the safety of every Nigerian and maintaining national security. The force has urged citizens to go about their daily activities without fear, as they have taken necessary measures to ensure their safety.
The situation is being closely monitored, and the police are on high alert to respond to any eventuality. The international community is also on high alert, as the reported killing of Khamenei has sparked fears of a wider conflict in the region.
The Nigerian government has yet to issue an official statement on the reported killing of Khamenei, but the police directive is likely to put pressure on the authorities to take a stance on the issue.