By Milcah Tanimu

The Yobe State Police Command has raised alarms about the potential infiltration of the planned nationwide protests by Boko Haram insurgents.

DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, the Command’s spokesperson, issued a statement on Saturday expressing concerns that the protests could be exploited by foreign mercenaries aiming to incite violence and disrupt the demonstrations.

Abdulkarim advised those planning to join the protests to exercise caution, citing intelligence reports suggesting a plot to use the protest as a cover for violent activities.

“As Yobe State recovers from insurgency, Commissioner of Police CP Garba Ahmed acknowledges the citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly,” Abdulkarim stated. “However, we must alert citizens to potential threats, as even peaceful protests might be ill-timed given current security concerns.”

Recent insurgency-related incidents in Gujba LGA, including an IED explosion, have heightened security concerns. The police are concerned about facing additional challenges during this period.

The statement urged protesters to cooperate with law enforcement, adhere to legal guidelines, and follow best practices for peaceful demonstrations. The Police Command remains committed to ensuring public order and working with all parties to support peaceful expression.