By Amah
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By James
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The Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong warning to the organisers of the free Nnamdi Kanu protest not to come close to the Presidential Villa and it’s vicinity.
CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Force Public Relations Officer, in a statement in Abuja explained that the warning became necessary because of an order by a Federal High Court, Abuja, which he said barred Omoyele Sowore, the Organiser of the protest and others from.
He said the warning became pessary base on the order of Federal High Court, Abuja, which barred Omoyele Sowore, the Organiser of the protest, and others from protesting around the Aso Rock and its environs.
“The order restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs,” Hundeyin said.
“Other area are the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.
“Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act, capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order,” he said.
The police spokesman said the force would ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens.
According to him, any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively.
Hundeyin said offenders would be arrested, subjected to full investigation, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws, including laws relating to public order, violent conduct and terrorism where applicable.
He added that those who incite others via social media or other platforms would be investigated and prosecuted.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, in a statement on Sunday, has directed his men to be on high alert and ensure strict enforcement of the court order.
He also ordered all relevant commands to maintain visible deployments across strategic locations in Abuja to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
However, Sowore, has asked the Federal Capital Territory Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye, and officers of the Nigeria Police Force to honour their oath to protect citizens and respect the constitutional right to peaceful assembly ahead of Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanuNow march.
He said in a statement shared on his social media on Sunday, the new FCT police boss should shun a heavy-handed approach to the demonstration but rather to refuse any order that would violate protesters’ rights and to ensure the safety of marchers.
