By Milcah Tanimu
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, announced yesterday that police have apprehended several key figures behind the recent riots, during which foreign flags were displayed and calls for governmental change were made in states including Kano, Kaduna, and Zamfara.
The IGP reported that sponsors of these protests, including those linked to foreign flags, have been identified, with many residing abroad. This follows a statement from Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, who confirmed that foreign sponsors have been placed on a watchlist.
As protests continued, including demonstrations in Port Harcourt blocking major roads and marching to Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike’s residence, state security measures have been adjusted. In Kano, the government has relaxed its curfew to allow daytime activities, while Kaduna has imposed a 24-hour curfew to quell unrest.
Police have arrested six Spanish nationals and 76 others in Kano, including individuals involved in producing foreign flags. The Comptroller-General of Immigration stated that these individuals will be detained upon their return to Nigeria.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, assured the public of the military’s commitment to maintaining order and preventing anarchy.
In Abuja, protests have diminished due to government restrictions and increased security, with only a few demonstrators remaining active. The Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, confirmed ongoing monitoring of suspected sponsors and blocked accounts.
Overall, authorities are intensifying efforts to restore order and ensure national security amid ongoing unrest and protest activities across various states.