FCT Police Urge NLC to Reschedule Planned Protest Over Security Concerns
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has issued a formal appeal to the Nigeria Labour Congress, requesting the rescheduling of its planned protest within the capital territory. This urgent call comes in response to credible intelligence reports suggesting potential security threats that could compromise public safety.
Intelligence Reports Reveal Security Threats
According to detailed intelligence gathered by security agencies, there are concrete indications that members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, commonly known as the Shiite sect, along with other non-state actors, plan to infiltrate the peaceful demonstration. These elements reportedly intend to hijack the protest for purposes that directly threaten public peace and security within the Federal Capital Territory.
The police command, through a statement signed by SP Josephine Adeh, emphasized that while they fully recognize and respect citizens' constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and protest, the current security situation necessitates precautionary measures. The intelligence at their disposal suggests a coordinated effort to transform what should be a peaceful labor demonstration into a platform for violence and disruption.
Balancing Rights and Public Safety
The FCT Police Command has reiterated its commitment to providing adequate security for all lawful activities within the territory. However, they have highlighted the need to balance this commitment with the overriding interest of public safety. The planned protest, scheduled for Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026, presents specific challenges given the intelligence about potential infiltration.
The police appeal specifically requests organizers to consider moving the protest to a later date and time, allowing security agencies to better prepare and implement measures that would prevent any breakdown of law and order. This approach aims to ensure that while protest rights are protected, the safety, freedom of movement, and daily activities of other residents are not compromised.
Commitment to Protection and Cooperation
In their comprehensive statement, the FCT Police Command assured residents of their unwavering dedication to protecting lives and property within the capital territory. They emphasized that this appeal for rescheduling represents a proactive measure rather than a restriction on democratic rights.
The command has called for continued cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies in their collective effort to maintain peace and security. They stressed that such cooperation is essential for creating an environment where both protest rights and public safety can coexist without conflict.
This development highlights the ongoing challenges security agencies face in balancing constitutional rights with intelligence-driven security concerns in Nigeria's capital territory.
