Obgist | Nigeria News, Celebrity Scoop, International Gist and Tech News

The Anambra State Police Command has issued a strong warning against street protests, marches, and unlawful gatherings in Awka, the state capital, citing concerns over public safety and security.

In a statement released on Friday, the Police Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said unauthorised protests could threaten peace, disrupt lawful activities, and inconvenience residents going about their daily lives.

The Command explained that recent security gains across Anambra State could be undermined if public gatherings are allowed to proceed without approval. 

According to the police, intelligence-led operations and community policing efforts have helped reduce cult-related violence and other crimes in the state.

SP Ikenga disclosed that only days earlier, police operatives engaged in a gun battle that resulted in the killing of a suspected member of the Vikings Confraternity. 

The suspect was reportedly part of a strike group planning a retaliatory attack following the killing of one of their members by a rival cult group in Enugwu Agidi.

Police authorities warned that street protests or marches at this time could create openings for criminal elements to exploit the situation, leading to disorder and insecurity.

While acknowledging the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, the Command stressed that such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law.

The police made it clear that any gathering that blocks traffic, disrupts commercial activities, or creates public nuisance will not be tolerated. 

Instead, organisers and interest groups were advised to engage authorities through lawful means such as dialogue, formal petitions, and stakeholder consultations.

Residents were also urged to remain calm, continue their lawful activities, and report any suspicious movements or actions that could threaten public peace to the nearest police station.

The warning follows intelligence reports suggesting that the Neo-Black Movement of Africa may be planning activities capable of triggering unrest, including cult initiations and possible reprisals against rival groups.

In addition, the Police Command cautioned hotel owners, lounge operators, and managers of short-let apartments against allowing their facilities to be used for unauthorised gatherings linked to cult activities or public disorder.

SP Tochukwu Ikenga reiterated the Command’s commitment to proactive policing and assured residents that all necessary measures are being taken to maintain a safe and secure environment across Anambra State.