IGP deploys more manpower, assets over rising security threats, tensions in FCT

In a bid to reassure residents of its determination to ensure security of lives and properties, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has deployed additional manpower and assets to provide security for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Recall that there have been heightened tension and fears over frequent terrorist attacks in the nation’s capital city. Security reports indicated that bandits and terrorists have concluded plans to launch terror attacks in the FCT and other major cities and states of the federation.

In July, terrorists took the nation by surprise after attacking Kuje Medium Correctional Centre, Abuja in an operation that lasted about 3 hours, thereby freeing over 600 inmates including 64 members of Boko Haram.

While the nation was still in shock and wondering what must have happened to the nation’s security agencies, the terrorists again ambushed the 7 Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Bwari Council Area of the FCT, killing several of them. Few days after the attack, bandits reportedly launched an attack on soldiers at a checkpoint close to Zuma Rock along Zuba/Madalla road, Abuja.

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Following the attacks and the fears they have generated, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba on Tuesday ordered massive deployment of additional police operatives and operational assets within the FCT and its environs to solidify the security and protection of lives and property of its residents, critical national assets and vulnerable facilities as well as road users plying routes in and around the FCT.

Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen, saying the IGP assured FCT residents and Nigerians of safety and protection from security threats. He further stated that the IGP has strongly cautioned against the spread of false rumours to further create tension within the nation’s capital city.

Adejobi said, “The IGP made the charge during the Force Management Team’s meeting at his office on Monday, August 1st, 2020 while receiving general security updates on the nation.

“He has equally charged the Deputy Inspector – General of Police in charge of the Department of Operations, DIG Bala Zama Senchi, to supervise and manage the deployment to ensure maximum security in the FCT as well as surrounding states with a high risk of attacks resonating from the threats being speculated on the news, as the Force does not and will never handle any information with kid gloves.

“The IGP however cautioned members of the public, especially citizen-journalists, on the dangers of spreading false alarms, misinformation, and disinformation as they could be detrimental and counterproductive to national security.

“In the same vein, the Inspector-General of Police has assured Nigerians in general, and residents of the FCT in particular, of their safety and security, while urging them to go about their lawful duties without fear of attacks.

“He equally reiterated the firm determination of the Police leadership to continue to explore avenues to enhance the security architecture in the country, through intelligence gathering, operational deployments and application of cutting edge technology to decimate the activities of criminal elements across the country.