Security Measures Enhanced for Nigeria’s Independence Day Amid Planned Protests

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has initiated comprehensive security measures across Abuja in anticipation of the Independence Day celebration on October 1st. This announcement was made through a statement signed by the spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, highlighting the importance of a secure and peaceful celebration for residents of Nigeria’s capital.

According to the FCT Command, the security deployment includes Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) personnel, anti-riot equipment, and the implementation of visibility policing. Traffic diversions are planned in areas expecting large crowds, notably the Central Area and Eagle Square, to manage the expected congestion.

Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the provided police emergency lines. This measure is part of the broader strategy to maintain order and safety during the celebrations.

In addition to the Independence Day celebrations, the FCT Police are preparing for the planned #EndHungerProtest, scheduled to coincide with the national holiday. Previous protests, running from August 1 to 10, met with significant police resistance across Nigeria, resulting in fatalities and the destruction of public infrastructure in six states.

Meanwhile, in Ogun State, Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, has urged residents to refrain from participating in national protests planned for Independence Day. The appeal was made during a meeting with security chiefs, where intelligence reports suggested possible disruptions on the anniversary.

The meeting at the Ogun State command headquarters included all major security agencies, such as the Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Civil Defense Corps, Amotekun, and Immigration. The combined message from the security bodies was a call for calm and peace while encouraging government interventions to alleviate public hardship.

The ongoing preparations reflect a concerted effort by Nigerian security forces to ensure peace and stability amid expressions of public dissent on significant national occasions.