Police in Gombe issue guidelines for protest

The Gombe State Police Command has issued guidelines for peaceful protest and warned against violent protest, ahead of the planned mass-protest scheduled for August 1-10, 2024.

Commissioner of Police of the state, Hayatu Usman, addressed the press at the Command Headquarters, emphasising the importance of public safety and order.

While acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest, the Command urged protest leaders and organisers to provide essential information, including names, contact details, expected duration, assembly points, and proposed protest routes.

“This will enable the Command to deploy adequate personnel, ensure maximum protection, establish clear communication channels, minimise the risk of violence, and prevent property damage.”, he said.

The Commissioner warned that criminal elements, mainly youth, are planning to unleash terror on innocent citizens under the guise of peaceful protest.

He assured that the Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, will respond professionally to prevent such individuals or groups from endangering lives and property.

The Command urged peace-loving citizens to exercise caution before joining any protest group and encouraged cooperation with the Police to promote peace and maintain public order.