NSCDC begins show of force in Anambra ahead of hunger protest

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command, has commenced a show of force in the state ahead of the planned nationwide protests beginning August 1.

The state commandant of the NSCDC, Maku Olatunde, who led the officers and men in the “show of force” in and around the state, on Tuesday, said the exercise was a display of the command’s readiness and commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment and dominate the public space.

Our correspondent observed that the show of force started at the state command headquarters in Awka, the state capital, and covered key routes including Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Ziks Avenue, Regina Caeli Junction, Kwata Junction, New Parts Nkpor, Nkpor-Junction, Borromeo Roundabout, Awka road, DMGS Roundabout, Upper New Market Road, Oguta Road, and ending at the Head Bridge in Onitsha.

The exercise showcased a strong security presence across the various localities visited.

The state commandant declared that the current display of force, which will persist until August 12, serves as a testament to the agency’s readiness and dedication to ensuring the round-the-clock security of critical national assets and infrastructure.

He said, “This proactive measure seeks to preempt and mitigate any potential incidents of vandalism, breaches of peace, and lawlessness that may occur in conjunction with the planned nationwide protest.

“The coordinated display of force with other security agencies in Anambra State, within their respective areas of expertise, sends an unequivocal message that the state’s security machinery is robustly prepared to take firm and decisive action against any individuals attempting to disguise themselves as protesters and compromise the existing safety and security atmosphere.”

Olatunde cautioned youths not to allow themselves to be used to unleash terror on law-abiding citizens and destroy Critical Assets as well as public Infrastructure provided by the government.

He urged citizens to cooperate with the security agencies and report any suspicious activities that would undermine the relative peace in Anambra State.

Meanwhile, the state commandant has cautioned officers and men deployed ahead of the protest against unprofessional conduct, stressing that the command will not hesitate in dealing with anyone involved in misconduct and unprofessional acts.

“In the execution of your lawful duties, I implore you to exercise extreme caution and vigilance. Demonstrate exemplary self-control, eschew trigger-happy tendencies, and avoid confrontations with protesters. Prioritise de-escalation techniques to guarantee a peaceful and serene outcome,” he added.