The Inspector General of Police (I-G), Mr Mohammed Adamu has ordered 24 hours surveillance on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its environs to forestall break down of law and order.
A statement by DCP Frank Mba, the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) in Abuja on Tuesday said the I-G gave the order following a violent protest by members of the El-Zakzakky Group in Abuja.
The Shi’ites were clamouring for the release of their leader and his wife.
According to Adamu the protest by the group at the National Assembly led to assault and injury to Police personnel on lawful duty as well as willful damage to public properties.
The statement read in part: “The Commissioners of Police and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors General of Police in States contiguous to the FCT are also placed on the alert to ensure maximum security.
“While noting that the force is not against citizens expressing their grouse against the state, the I-G stressed that such ventilations must be done through legitimate and acceptable processes.
“The I-G, therefore, warned that citizens should not test the collective will of the people and the state by engaging in lawless acts likely to cause the breach of the peace,” he said.
Meanwhile, Adamu has ordered a speedy and diligent investigation into the incident as well as prompt prosecution of all persons arrested in connection with it.
The I-G, who expressed displeasure over the attack and injury inflicted on nine Police Officers by members of the El-Zakzakky Group, however commended the restraint, maturity and professionalism displayed by police personnel in containing the protest.
He directed the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Police Medical Department to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured officers.
