Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Adamu has ordered police personnel to deploy what he called “lawful force” in protecting lives and property of citizens.
According to a statement by Force PRO Frank Mba, on Saturday, the IGP said the protection must also cover personnel of other law enforcement agencies, their families and prevent attacks on private and public assets from violent persons or groups operating under any guise.
The police boss called on senior police officers including commissioners of police and assistant inspectors-general of police to resist all riotous elements forthwith.
The IGP urged them to check any form of violent and riotous protests in line with Section 33 (1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).
He said the section of the constitution provides for the use of such force as is reasonably necessary, for the defence of any person from unlawful violence or for the defence of property.
Adamu said the section also allows for force in order to effect a lawful arrest or to prevent the escape of a person lawfully detained for the purpose of suppressing a riot, insurrection or mutiny.
The IGP said the Force would not tolerate a repeat of attacks and killings, arson and wanton destruction, and looting of public and private assets witnessed during the recent violent protests in some parts of the country.
He called for the collaboration and support of citizens in the ongoing reforms of the Force.
Twenty-two policemen were murdered and 26 injured in the aftermath of the protest.
