•Ban land, chieftaincy related protests
The police in Ogun State have alleged that some persons are planning to scuttle the inauguration of a new government on May 29.
This was contained in a statement yesterday by spokesman Abimbola Oyeyemi.
The police said intelligence report at their disposal showed that some “unscrupulous elements” were scheming to foment trouble across the state to disrupt the inauguration of the new administration.
“Rallies, processions and assemblies in public places are being orchestrated by these enemies of peace seemingly to resolve chieftaincy and land-related matters, rather than approaching the court to seek justice. These are aimed at heating up the state before inauguration,” Oyeyemi alleged.
He said the command had put in place a robust security arrangement to checkmate such plans, including the ban on public protests or processions in relation to land disputes and chieftaincy issues.
Residents or groups seeking to hold public protests on issues must seek clearance from the Commissioner of Police, Oyeyemi said.
He said: “The command has put in place a robust security arrangement aimed at checkmating such troublemakers and other criminally-minded persons, including miscreants and disgruntled elements.
“The special units of the command, namely SARS, PMF, STS, Anti-kidnapping as well as DPOS and Area Commanders have been placed on red alert with specific instruction to closely monitor these misguided elements and respond swiftly to any distress call/disturbance of public peace.
“The Commissioner of Police, Bashir Makama, has also ordered 24-hour surveillance patrols across the state.
People are advised, for the purpose of peace, law and order, to put on hold for now any form of public procession, rally or carnival related to chieftaincy and land matters.
“They should rather seek Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods or approach the court for redress. In furtherance to this, persons or groups intending to hold public assemblies and rallies other than as stated above are advised to contact the office of the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State, for approval and security.
“The command will not hesitate to deal with anybody or group who attempts to disrupt the peace of the state, no matter how highly placed such person(s) may be, as the law is no respecter of anybody.
“The police in Ogun State are committed to the defence of the rule of law, safety and security for all law-abiding citizens.”
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