Planned protest: NSCDC deploys 1,190 personnel for protection of national assets in Anambra

• The federal government and state governors have expressed concerns over the possible hijack of the protest by hoodlums, while urging youths to shelve the marches.
• On Thursday, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said the military has “detected” plans by some “unscrupulous elements” to hijack the protest and perpetrate violence

The Anambra command of the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it has deployed 1,190 personnel to protect national assets ahead of the planned protest.

The proposed youth-led nationwide protest is slated to commence on August 1.

Olatunde Maku, NSCDC state commandant, said through Edwin Okadigbo, its spokesperson, that the mobilization aims to enhance public safety, enforce calm, and maintain normalcy during the protest.

Maku said that the deployment was in accordance with a directive from Ahmed Audi, commandant-general of the corps, aimed at safeguarding vital national resources and facilities.

The Anambra NSCDC commandant said that the personnel will be split into two teams, with one team focusing on enforcing the anti-sit-at-home directive and the other team working to prevent and respond to violent protests, vandalism, and other unlawful activities.

He recognized the citizens’ right to peaceful assembly while urging protest organizers to conduct their activities in a lawful and orderly manner.

“We will not remain passive or indifferent in the face of violent activities that threaten to disrupt the peaceful co-existence of all Anambra residents or destroy our national assets and infrastructure,” Maku said.

“Instead, we will take proactive measures to prevent and counter such actions, ensuring the safety and security of residents and the protection of such critical assets.

“Individuals contemplating illegal acts during the protest, such as tampering with government assets or infrastructure will face severe legal consequences.

“Additionally, disrupting social and economic activities in the state, particularly at strategic facilities like airports and hospitals, and hindering essential service providers from carrying out their duties, is strictly prohibited.

“Those who ignore these warnings will be held accountable and face the full force of the law.”