Victor Ezeja
Anambra State Police Command have warned those planning to conduct protest in the state over the scarcity of the new naira notes to shelve it.
Police Spokesperson in the state, DSP Toochukwu Ikenga, in a statement released on Wednesday, 8th February, disclosed that the command has uncovered plot by some people to unleash violence in parts of the state in the name of protest.
Ikenga, who described them as mischief makers, warned them to desist from such action, adding that police have deployed optimal human and material resources to guarantee adequate security in the state.
Part of the statement reads: “Anambra State Police Command today 8/2/2023 has uncovered plans by some groups of persons to take advantage of the new Naira notes scarcity to unleash violence in some parts of the State.
“The Command has described the scarcity as not peculiar to Anambra State alone and noted that the Federal Government is doing everything possible to address the situation.
“The Command hereby warns these groups/persons to shelve their planned violence or have the full weight of the law to contend with.
“The Police, in conjunction with other security agencies, have embarked on confidence-building patrols and ensure the optimal deployment of human and operational resources towards guaranteeing safety and security in the State.
“The Command, therefore, enjoined Anambrarians and residents alike not to panic and urge the law-abiding residents/visitors of the state to go about their lawful duties without any fear of harassment or intimidation.”
While assuring the people of safety, Ikenga said residents who need security services should “call: 07039194332 or PRO 08039334002 for a prompt response.”
It added that the “‘npf rescue me app’ is also available for free download on both Android and Apple IOS, for Android and iPhone users respectively.”
As Nigerians grapple with the biting scarcity of new naira notes, some are gradually loosing patience, as seen in those who have engaged in violent protests in Ibadan, Oyo State, Ogun, Enugu among other states.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
