The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has announced the deployment of sufficient personnel and resources across the FCT in preparation for the October 1 Independence Day celebrations.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, the command emphasized that these measures are aimed at ensuring a smooth and secure celebration for all residents of the territory.
Adeh highlighted that the deployment includes specialized units such as Explosive Ordinance Disposal teams, anti-riot gear, and enhanced visibility policing efforts to cover key areas throughout the capital.
“The FCT Police Command, in anticipation of the upcoming October 1st Independence Day celebration, has strategically deployed adequate personnel and equipment throughout the FCT. These proactive deployments aim to ensure that residents of the FCT enjoy a hitch-free Independence Day celebration. The deployment will include Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) personnel, anti-riot equipment, visibility policing, among others,” Adeh noted in the statement.
In addition to the increased police presence, there will be traffic diversions in areas expected to see large gatherings, such as the Central Area and Eagle Square, where the main festivities are scheduled to take place.
FCT residents are encouraged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to the authorities through designated emergency lines.
Meanwhile, the #FearlessInOctober protest movement is set to begin on October 1, 2024.
Organizers have planned nationwide protests to address critical issues such as hunger and economic hardship under the current administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The protests are expected to persist until the protesters’ demands are addressed.
Organizers have disclosed the meeting points and times for the protest, which will take place across several states.
These include Abuja’s Eagle Square at 7:00 a.m.; Ikeja Under Bridge in Lagos at 7:30 a.m.; Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, Oyo State at 8:00 a.m.; Pleasure Park in Port Harcourt, Rivers State at 7:30 a.m.; Arewa Youth for Peace Office on Damaturu Road in Borno State at 8:00 a.m.; and Ilorin Post Office Under-bridge in Kwara State at 8:00 a.m.
Yobe will have its convergence point at the Damaturu Main Roundabout at 8:00 a.m.
The Take It Back Movement shared these details via its official X handle, urging citizens to mobilize at the designated venues and times to push forward the agenda of highlighting the challenges facing the country.
This new protest builds on the momentum of the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations, which took place from August 1 to 10 and similarly focused on economic hardships and governance issues affecting Nigeria. The protesters are determined to bring lasting change by continuing their advocacy through these coordinated efforts.