As reported by DAILY POST, protests against national hardship erupted across numerous states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, on August 1, 2024. However, the first day of the demonstration descended into chaos, with widespread violence and looting reported in major cities.

Key trouble spots included Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT Abuja, Niger, Jigawa, and Nasarawa States. Several of these states have already imposed curfews in an attempt to regain control.

Addressing a press conference, IGP Egbetokun criticized the protest organizers for their absence and urged an immediate halt to the demonstrations. He highlighted that the police had anticipated the potential for violence based on intelligence reports.

“The scale of the situation is alarming. We had anticipated this scenario based on actionable intelligence indicating that certain groups were preparing to incite violence under the guise of a peaceful protest,” Egbetokun stated. “Despite our warnings and suggestions to restrict protests to confined areas for better security management, the violence has spiraled out of control.”

He emphasized that the protest had turned into a mass uprising, with criminal elements exploiting the situation to loot and destroy property. Significant damage has been reported in various states, including attacks on police stations, government buildings, and private properties.

IGP Egbetokun expressed frustration at the lack of adherence to court orders, particularly in the FCT, where protests continued despite directives to confine them to the National Stadium. Incidents of unprovoked attacks on security personnel were also reported, including the murder of one policeman.

“While we had warned of potential terrorist infiltration, including possible suicide bombers, our EOD team successfully neutralized a suspicious device in Lagos. Unfortunately, Borno State witnessed a deadly explosion during the protest, resulting in four deaths and 34 injuries,” Egbetokun added.

He called on Nigerians to heed security warnings and adhere to legal guidelines during the unrest. The Nigeria Police Force is now on high alert, with all units mobilized to address further threats to public safety.

“The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are prepared to respond decisively to protect lives and maintain order. We urge citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities,” Egbetokun concluded.