Unleash ‘lawful force’ on rioters, IGP orders police

The Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Adamu has instructed officers to deploy “direct use of lawful force” against rioters in Nigeria.

Adamu had also told police officers, some of whom were reportedly attacked by the same thugs who unleashed mayhem on EndSARS protesters, to use their firearms in self-defence against any form of attack on their persons.

The police also warned against any renewed protest.

Adamu, in a statement released by police spokesperson Frank Mba on Saturday, said such use of force should be in line with the constitution.

Adamu said the police “should resist all riotous elements forthwith and checkmate any form of violent/riotous protests in line with Section 33 (1) & (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) which among other things provides for the use of such force as is reasonably necessary”.

Adamu “affirms that the Force will not tolerate a repeat of the horrendous attacks and killings, arson and wanton destruction, and looting of public and private assets witnessed during the recent violent protests in some parts of the country.

“He warns that the Force shall deploy the full weight of the law and legitimate force (if necessary) in preventing a reoccurrence.”

“Recall that in the wake of the ENDSARS protests and the violence that emanated therefrom, a total of fifty-one (51) civilian fatalities and thirty-seven (37) civilian injuries were recorded, while a total of twenty-two (22) policemen were gruesomely murdered and twenty-six (26) others injured by the protesters. Two hundred and five (205) police stations, corporate facilities and private property were attacked, burnt or vandalized.

“The IGP assures law abiding citizens across the country of the Force’s renewed and unwavering commitment to their safety and security especially as we approach the yuletide. He calls for the collaboration and support of citizens in the ongoing reforms of the Force.”