By Tony Adibe
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Enugu State Command has issued directive to its personnel to be on alert in enhancing security measures to protect critical national assets and infrastructure.
The Commandant of NSCDC Enugu State Command, Commander Cyprian Otoibhi, said in a statement issued on Monday in Enugu that the directive was imperative ahead of the nationwide protests scheduled for August 1, 2024.
The commander noted that the directive emphasised the importance of proactive measures to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order and to ensure a coordinated response to security challenges.
The command has ordered the deployment of patrol teams and intelligence officers to all nooks and crannies of the state, according to him. He said: “This is aimed at maintaining vigilance, gathering real-time intelligence, and ensuring rapid response to any security threats.
“I have also directed that Area Commanders and Divisional officers as well as supervisory officers maintain the highest level of vigilance and to take full responsibility for the security of assets within their jurisdictions.
“I passionately appeal to the protest organisers to consider seeking alternative lawful methods to express their grievances”. Otoibhi cautioned against the involvement of miscreants, hoodlums, and other disruptive elements whose contribution to the protest would be counterproductive.
“I am assuring the good citizens of the state that all necessary and lawful measures will be employed to maintain peace and order, thereby ensuring a safe and secure environment for all law-abiding citizens,” he added.