The FG has directed security forces to tighten border control due to an upcoming protest, focusing on safety and stability.
Due to the impending nationwide protest against Nigeria’s current economic difficulties, the Federal Government has mandated increased border security measures.
The spokesperson of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), KT Udo, stated that the agency’s Comptroller General issued the instruction.
According to a statement released on Saturday, KN Nandap pcc, mmis, fsm – the Comptroller General of Immigration Service – has instructed Zonal Heads, State Command Comptrollers and Divisional Immigration Officers (DIOS) across the country to increase their alertness levels and intensify monitoring due to an upcoming protest organized by certain groups.
All Comptrollers of Border Commands were instructed by the Comptroller General to ensure that border officers work diligently in order to prevent deceitful foreign individuals from entering the country with malicious intentions.
The statement served as a reminder to law enforcement officials, emphasizing the importance of exhibiting impeccable professionalism and unwavering devotion to their country when fulfilling their responsibilities.
The scheduled protest against the financial struggles is dubbed as #EndBadGovernance and will commence on August 1st, 2024. The escalation in inflation rates to 34.19% by June of that year was predominantly initiated by President Tinubu’s government through two policies: ending fuel subsidies and implementing a floating exchange rate for the country’s currency, the naira.
The inflation that is steadily decreasing the value of the naira has made essential commodities unaffordable for millions, resulting in demands for protests.
Other security agencies, such as the NIS, have increased their efforts to ensure national safety and are advising against participating in the protest which has gained momentum through social media.
According to the Department of State Services (DSS), they have uncovered the individuals behind the upcoming protest, but issued a warning against it. The DSS stated concerns that certain criminals intend on exploiting these gatherings and inciting chaos across Nigeria. Additionally, law enforcement officials support these claims by suggesting that foreign militants are aiding in this demonstration; hence, urging organizers to provide their information for security reasons beforehand. Lastly,it should be noted that over 4,200 police personnel will be overseeing events within Federal Capital Territory as precautions continue to mount surrounding future protests.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) alleged that the protest was at risk of being taken over by troublemakers.
President Tinubu and several state governors have been engaging with pertinent parties in an attempt to prevent the protest. The Nigerian officials are advocating for peaceful communication, appealing to the coordinators of the demonstration to grant the government additional time as they work toward resolving challenges within their nation.
