By Blessing Chinagorom
Ahead of nationwide protest starting tomorrow, the Nigeria Police Force has discovered and successful detonation of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) on 31st July, 2024.
In a statement released by the Force, stating that this explosion was detonated by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, along Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, Lagos.
While urged all members of the public to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings, reporting unusual or suspicious behaviour. “Where encounters unfamiliar suspicious object, please don’t touch or move it. Rather, keep a safe distance and immediately raise alarm”, the Police said.
Police reiterated that its foremost responsibility is to protect the lives and property of its citizens which is why it working tirelessly to investigate further the source of the bearers of the IED planted in Lagos.
“Dismantled their plans and apprehend those involved, the cooperation of well-meaning members of the public is vital in these critical times. It’s pertinent to state that intentions of the criminally minded individuals, who acted like terrorists for planting the IEDs at that strategic location.
Also were purely to destroy houses, public facilties among innocent citizens who may transverse along the route where the items were recovered. It’s not out of point, however, be vigilant to detect such unusual packages or parcels in its vicinity to avert any ugly incidences. 
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu EGbetokun addressed a virtual conference with Senior Police Officers from across the country, focusing on critical issues of preparedness, deployment, and the maintenance of law and order during the planned nationwide protest in the country.
In his address, the IGP emphasized the importance of maintaining a high level of alertness and professionalism within the force, noting that the safety and security of the nation depend on the vigilance, gallantry, and readiness of our officers in the Police and other security agencies.
The IGP highlighted the need for continuous preparedness and strategic deployment of police officers to respond to any situation while maximally equipped, and ready to handle any scenario that may arise.
Stressing the critical role of the police in maintaining law and order, the IGP reminded senior officers of their duty to uphold the rule of law, and police with the highest level of integrity.
The IGP also emphasized that while peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right, the police must be vigilant to prevent any group from hijacking such events to incite violence.
He directed that proactive measures must be emplaced to ensure that peaceful protests do not turn into violent confrontations, as Nigeria cannot afford to record any violence in this period.
Furthermore, with much emphasis, the IGP issued a stern warning agains spread of fake news via various media platforms charging officers to put in necessary emplacements to manage this, and advising members of the public to shun the spread of unverified contents on social media.
The IGP also warned against unplanned protests, unnecessary street processions, which can disrupt public order and safety reiterating that confined protests are best in this situation to prevent destruction of public infrastructures and other properties.
The IGP called on all senior officers to remain steadfast in their commitment to service, emphasizing that their leadership is crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.
