The Kebbi State Police Command has cautioned groups and non-governmental organisations planning to stage protests over the abduction of students at Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, warning that such action could heighten tension and undermine ongoing security operations.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafi’u Kotarkoshi, said intelligence reports indicated that some groups were mobilising to begin protests at any moment. He stressed that the current security situation in the state is too fragile for any form of public demonstration.
According to him, organising protests at this time carries “the potential of instigating violence in the state,” a development he said would be dangerous and counterproductive to the ongoing rescue mission.
While expressing the Command’s deep concern over the tragic abduction, Kotarkoshi emphasised that demonstrations could jeopardise the efforts of the combined security team working around the clock to secure the safe return of the kidnapped schoolgirls.
“It is misguided and counterproductive for any protest to hold in the state, as it will undermine the unwavering commitment of the combined team of security personnel in their relentless efforts to rescuing the kidnapped schoolgirls unhurt,” he stated.
The Command reassured residents of its determination to protect lives and property, maintain law and order, and prevent activities capable of destabilising the state.
Kotarkoshi urged citizens to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely information that could support ongoing operations. “We call on members of the public to continue supporting police operations by reporting any suspicious movement to the nearest police station or other security agencies for prompt response,” he added.
He appealed for calm and patience, assuring that security operatives are working tirelessly to resolve the situation and bring the students home safely.
