The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning against the display of foreign flags and any calls for a military takeover of government as some have been doing during the ongoing nationwide protests.
Police said such actions were treasonable felonies.
In a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi, expressed disapproval of the violent protests, particularly in Bauchi, Kano, Kaduna, and Katsina states, where protesters were seen with foreign flags.
The statement revealed that ongoing investigations indicate that protest organizers in these states are recruiting innocent children to participate in these unpatriotic and criminal acts. Over 90 suspects have been arrested, including tailors who made the flags and their sponsors.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend others involved in sponsoring and promoting these treasonable activities.
“The display of foreign flags and calls for a military takeover is a clear treasonable offence, indicating the protest organizers’ intention to destabilize Nigeria’s democratic government,” the statement said.
It noted that tensions from the protests have eased following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s address on August 4, 2024.
However, some groups continue their subversive activities through violent and unlawful protests, which involve the destruction of public and private property, looting, displaying foreign flags, and calling for a military takeover.
The statement emphasized that individuals and groups involved in these activities will be treated as subversive agents and face charges accordingly.
Inspector General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has directed Deputy Inspectors General of Police for the Northwest and Northeast zones, DIGs Bala Ciroma and Bello Makwashi, to oversee operations in the states where these subversive activities are taking place under the guise of protests.
They are tasked with stabilizing the situation and preventing further violence in these regions.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated that using foreign flags during protests and openly calling for a military takeover of the government is a capital offense under Nigerian law.
The police also commended Nigerians who have refused to participate in the protests and those who spoke out against them, showing patriotism and belief in the government’s efforts to achieve economic recovery and growth.
They acknowledged the patriotism of those who peacefully participated in the protests but withdrew when they turned violent and those who heeded the President’s call to embrace dialogue.
The police force assured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace, protecting the nation’s heritage, and working with the public to ensure the safety and stability of Nigeria.
Source: PM News
