Nigeria Police Monitoring Islamic Sects Over Middle East Tensions, IGP Disu Reveals
The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force is actively monitoring Islamic sects across the country in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East. This announcement was made following his swearing-in as the new police chief by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja.
Foreign Conflicts Could Spark Local Unrest
Disu emphasized that global developments, particularly conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, could have direct consequences within Nigeria. "We know we have groups of people, different kinds of Islamic sects in Nigeria. We have those who pay allegiance to this eastern part of the world as well," Disu stated. "If anything happens in the eastern part of the world, the repercussions will come to us."
His comments reference the recent joint U.S. and Israeli airstrikes that assassinated Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei Ali, which prompted protests by Nigerian Shia Muslims in states like Kano, Kaduna, and Sokoto.
Proactive Security Measures Implemented
The police chief outlined that the force is taking preventive steps to ensure foreign conflicts do not ignite domestic unrest. This includes enhanced intelligence gathering, surveillance operations, and collaboration with other security agencies. Disu noted that past protests linked to international issues have sometimes resulted in clashes between demonstrators and security personnel, justifying the need for a proactive approach.
Recent activities by the Islamic Movement in Nigeria have further heightened alert levels among security agencies. While many gatherings have remained peaceful, authorities are determined to prevent any potential escalation.
Call for Public Calm and Stability
Disu reassured Nigerians that the country remains stable but urged citizens to maintain calm and avoid actions that could disrupt public peace. "We are working tirelessly to maintain law and order," he affirmed, highlighting the police's commitment to national security amid global uncertainties.
The Inspector General's revelation underscores the interconnected nature of international conflicts and domestic security, with the Nigeria Police Force positioning itself to mitigate any spillover effects from Middle East tensions.
