IGP Baba
…Fortifies eagle square for seamless inauguration ceremony
…Urges Citizens to Cooperate with Security Agencies
The Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, today 25th of May, 2023, said that the Nigeria Police Force has beefed up security throughout the country in preparation for the Presidential inauguration taking place on Monday 29th of May 2023, at Eagle Square in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Addressing journalists today, said that since the conclusion of the 2023 General Elections and the announcement of the President-elect, security has been beefed up throughout the country.
He added: “We have formed specific plans for the inauguration ceremony as contained in the operation order, which will provide enhanced protection while allowing invited guests well-meaning Nigerians, and International Community to witness the event.
“We work hand-in-hand and collaborate with all levels of government, private sectors, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and other security agencies to ensure the safety and security of all citizens; and have a laudable and seamless inauguration ceremony on May 29, 2023.”
According to him, the Nigeria Police Force was mobilising its operatives to provide a comprehensive security arrangement, adding that adequate personnel had been detailed to protect the Presidential Villa; provide security at and around the Eagle Square, man all the Nigerian Borders, Seaports, and Airports, while others will equally be deployed to man the entry and exit points of the capital city, Abuja, and other critical government installations.
Amongst these operatives are men drawn from the NPF Special Forces (SF), Police Mobile Force (PMF), Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Special Protection Unit (SPU), Anti Bomb Squad (ATB), FIB-Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Special Tactical Squad (STS), NPF Medical, NPF Mounted Troops, and K9, among others.
“The NPF has also deployed all its serviceable helicopters and highly efficient drones for aerial surveillance in Abuja and its environs. All NPF serviceable water canons and Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) will as well be deployed to man strategic places around the capital city,” said Adejobi.
He noted that the Police and other security operatives will be located along routes to and from the Inauguration Grounds.
He further said: “During the event, we will be taking rigorous safety measurements on the persons entering the venue, which include screenings and searches, and take charge of traffic control in collaboration with the protocol sub-committee of the transition committee to have seamless traffic flow.
“In line with the outlined activities to commemorate the Inauguration ceremony, there will be Jumat prayers on Friday, May 26, 2023, at the Central Mosque, Abuja; Church Service on Sunday, May 28, 2023, at Ecumenical Centre, and fireworks show at about 1201 hours on May 29, 2023, at the City Gate, Abuja. “Nigerians are on this note advised not to panic due to the fireworks show. In view of the above, the Nigeria Police hereby warns Nigerians who do not have any business around the vicinity during the ceremony to steer clear as security measures are emplaced to ensure serenity and orderliness.
“The Police wishes to equally inform the general public that there will be diversions in the following areas: Goodluck Jonathan Expressway by Court of Appeal; Deeper Life Junction, Bond/Total Filling Station, POWA/FCDA Junction, Finance Junction by ECOWAS/Women Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eagle Square-Phase 1 & Phase 11-, Kur Muhammad Way/National Mosque, Abia House, NITEL Junction by Ademola Adetokunbo, Gana Junction/Transcorp, Bayelsa House by Federal High Court, Aso Drive, Ceddi Plaza, NNPC Twin Tower, and NNPC/NBS. We, therefore, urge members of the public to cooperate with the Police for a seamless transition of power.”
The Force image manager also said that the Inauguration ceremonies at all state levels have also been catered for, as the IGP has directed Command Commissioners of Police and other security agencies to carry out heavy deployments to fortify venues of the Inauguration Ceremonies in their various states.
“The overall Commander of this operation is the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, who will be assisted by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Department of Operations, DIG, Adeleke Adeyinka Bode, and other coopted heads of operations of other security agencies,” noted Adejobi.
He stressed: “The IGP, therefore, urges all citizens to adhere to the rules and regulations as regards the Inauguration. He also reminds good citizens of Nigeria to report any suspicious activity or persons to the Police or other relevant security agencies.
“The Police, therefore, warn non-state actors or any aggrieved groups or individuals to follow due process and the rule of law in seeking redress in their cases as the law enforcement agencies will not hesitate to subdue any confrontational or act of insecurity.
“In conclusion, to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians, we ask all citizens to support the Police and be law-abiding. NPF is committed to ensuring a safe and secure Nigeria before, during, and after the Inauguration.”
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