As the nationwide protests against economic hardship persist in various parts of the country, security forces have called on protesters and organisers to embrace President Bola Tinubu’s olive branch extended in his recent broadcast and to end their protests immediately to allow for dialogue.
During the monthly “Strategic Communications Agency Policy Committee” joint press conference by Security, Defence, and Response Agencies, hosted by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasised the importance of stability and dialogue. He stated, “We have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly of the protest, and the President has spoken. The protesters and the organisers have to end the violent protests to allow for peaceful dialogue. Protest means different things to different people; to the Constitution, it’s the right of the citizens; to some, it’s looking; and to some, it’s demonstration. We are for the stability of the nation, to defend it, and to protect the citizens. We will continue to do that, and the President has spoken. Those behind the protests and the protesters should end them and embrace dialogue. As responsible forces, we will protect the country, the citizens, and the foreigners alike.”
DSS Spokesperson Dr. Peter Afunaya, speaking on behalf of the host agency, noted, “Our nation is experiencing unusual times. The past month was characterised by notable threats of protests and uprisings. While the right to protest is constitutionally guaranteed and remains a cornerstone of democratic governance in Nigeria, in the lead-up to these protests, Nigerian intelligence and security agencies uncovered plans by subversive groups and vandals to hijack the process. This triggered engagement at both policy and strategic levels with traditional and religious leaders, youth groups, members of civil society, and leaders of thought with the aim of appealing to the conscience of the organisers to reconsider their plans in the national interest, but these pleas went unheeded.”
Afunaya added, “As envisaged, the outcome was the wanton destruction of properties across multiple states. Additionally, security officials monitoring the protest and its aftermath faced extreme provocation. Videos emerged online showing arsonists attacking law enforcement agents and attempting to disarm them, but the officers responded with utmost professionalism. Despite these challenges, our security agencies made concerted and frantic efforts to restore calm to the affected areas, successfully re-establishing order. We take pride in our role in these endeavours, showcasing the resilience and dedication of our personnel.”
He, however, said that despite all odds, “various agencies recorded significant successes against criminal elements on multiple fronts during the month under review.”
According to him, “the Nigerian Armed Forces, under the leadership of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), exemplifying exceptional bravery and unwavering dedication, continue to safeguard our nation with remarkable achievements.”
In July 2024, their relentless operations resulted in the neutralisation of 572 terrorists, the arrest of 790 suspected terrorists and other criminal elements, and the rescue of 479 kidnapped hostages. Additionally, our gallant troops recovered 440 weapons and 10,589 rounds of ammunition, while also thwarting oil theft worth over N3 billion. The detailed breakdown includes 232 AK47 rifles, 93 locally fabricated guns, 82 dane guns, 32 pump action guns, 5,041 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 2,768 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 659 cartridges, 63 assorted arms, and 2,259 assorted rounds of ammunition.
Furthermore, they intercepted 3,650,080 litres of stolen crude oil, 625,518 litres of illegally refined AGO, 450 litres of DPK, and 1,230 litres of PMS, among other items, demonstrating their relentless commitment to upholding national security.
In the maritime sector, he said that “Operation Delta Sanity, extended for another 90 days starting July 10, 2024, has achieved remarkable successes, reflecting the unwavering commitment to enhancing security and combating criminal activities.”
He added that the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies, in a remarkable display of courage and efficiency, have dealt significant blows to criminal networks nationwide.
Dr. Afunaya further explained that the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) made significant strides in combating various criminal activities, particularly focussing on protecting the nation’s critical assets and infrastructure.
According to him, “over 70 suspects were apprehended in the Rivers and Bayelsa States for illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalisation, and operating illegal refineries. The NSCDC’s Anti-Vandal Squad and CG Intelligence Monitoring Team spearheaded these efforts, leading to the dismantling of numerous illegal refineries and the seizure of significant quantities of adulterated AGO.”
Additional arrests were made in the South-South region, including Akwa Ibom, Edo, and Delta States. The NSCDC also tackled cases of armoured cable vandalism, illegal mining, and rail track vandalisation, with hotspots in Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Abia, and Kogi States. Collaborative efforts with other agencies led to the transfer of certain cases, such as a firearms manufacturing operation in Abuja, highlighting the NSCDC’s comprehensive approach to national security.
“The NSCDC secured over 20 convictions during this period, although some are under appeal, such as notable cases in Akwa Ibom State. Borno State, with over 80 pending court matters, has the highest number of ongoing cases related to theft, vandalism, breach of trust, and financial crimes.”
“The NSCDC’s relentless efforts across various states demonstrate its commitment to curbing economic sabotage and maintaining law and order. The Corps continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s stability and economic integrity, working tirelessly to combat criminal activities and ensure the security of the nation’s resources.”
He added that the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in the FCT Command thwarted an elaborate smuggling attempt at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje. During the incident, a suspect identified as Precious Yusuf was apprehended while trying to introduce psychoactive drugs, including cannabis sativa, concealed in food packs intended for an inmate.
He further explained that during the period under review, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) intensified its strategic communication efforts to address the high incidence of road traffic accidents. With its prominent visibility on highways, the Corps leveraged its public relations unit and National Traffic Radio to emphasise that road safety is a collective responsibility.
According to him, “This approach aimed to foster a sense of ownership among road users and encourage compliance with traffic regulations. Notably, following fatal crashes in Kano State involving overloaded trailers, the Corps implemented targeted communication strategies, including pre-campaign briefings, town hall meetings, road shows, and media outreach.”
“The FRSC’s initiatives included engaging local leaders, partnering with law enforcement, and utilising various media channels to highlight the dangers of vehicle overloading. The Corps also produced and distributed educational materials and launched a social media campaign to broaden the reach of their safety messages. These efforts were designed to raise awareness about responsible loading practices, enforce regulations, and ultimately reduce road traffic accidents.”
Regarding the operations of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), he said the NIS continues to play a major role in safeguarding national security by managing border governance and migration with precision and diligence.
According to him, “During the month under review, the NIS marked several notable achievements, including the near-completion of the transformative technology complex. This cutting-edge facility will centralise automated monitoring, data analysis, and intelligence sharing, significantly enhancing national security.”
“Additionally, the rollout of an advanced electronic passport with improved security features and the implementation of the 2024 New Visa Policy highlights the Service’s efforts to modernise and attract foreign investment, aligning with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Similarly, the NIS has made substantial progress in strengthening its Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Public Key Directory (PKD), ensuring compliance with international standards for secure digital certificates. The Service’s nationwide campaigns against irregular migration and corruption, coupled with strategic inter-agency collaborations, reflect its proactive stance in tackling complex security challenges.”
“Furthermore, in anticipation of potential disruptions from planned nationwide protests, the NIS has intensified border surveillance and vigilance to prevent destabilising activities, reinforcing its commitment to national security and effective migration management.”
While assuring that the security agencies would continue to collaborate in ensuring adequate security in the country, he commended members of the public for their total support in their operations.
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