By Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Ahead of the August 1 nationwide protest, the Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has
issued a stern warning to those who may seek to exploit the protest for criminal activities and cause unrest in the state.

In a statement on Monday in Ilorin, the state capital, the NSCDC Commandant, Dr. Umar J. G. Mohammed, said the Command is on red alert, with robust measures in place to ensure that law and order are upheld before, during, and after the protest.

“The Command will not fold its hands and watch hoodlums wreak havoc, and vandalise critical national assets and infrastructure, as adequate deployment will be made across the state to ensure watertight security of life and property.

“While acknowledging the citizens’ right to protest, the Commandant urges the youths and other concerned citizens to lawfully and peacefully express their grievances, ensuring that national security and public safety are not compromised.

“I, therefore, encourage law-abiding Kwarans to continue with their daily activities without fear, affirming that stringent measures have been employed to address any envisaged threat,” the statement added.