Ahead of the August 1st protest, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), has urged people of Kogi State to prioritize the safety and well-being of communities and cooperate with the Police and other security agencies.
A statement by the State Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee, Kogi State Command, Elder Aaron Haruna Ali noted that the call became necessary to prevent hoodlums from hijacking the proposed peaceful protests and causing unwarranted destruction in Kogi State.
He said the National Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan in a news briefing in Abuja had expressed deep concerned about the upcoming nationwide protests.
Elder Aaron Ali noted that while the PCRC acknowledged and respect the right of citizens to express their grievances peacefully, it is imperative that caution must be taken to ensure that the proposed peaceful protest was not hijacked by hoodlums.
“We have seen, time and again, how well-intentioned protests can be hijacked by elements who seek only to sow discord and cause mayhem. These hoodlums exploit the genuine concerns of peaceful protesters to advance their own violent agendas. The State Chairman of the PCRC noted.
“Our country is at a critical juncture, facing numerous challenges that require collective effort and cooperation. It is with this in mind that I urge all individuals and groups planning to participate in the upcoming protest to reconsider. Let us not provide an opportunity for those who wish to harm our community to achieve their aim”. He stressed.
The State PCRC chairman while quoting the national chairman of the organization also stressed that the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has been proactive in its efforts to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.
” I appeal to Nigerian to cooperate with the police.
Our officers are dedicated to maintaining order and protecting lives and property. They are our partners in peace, not our adversaries. By working together, we can prevent any attempts to destabilize our communities.
“If you have grievances or concerns, let us explore alternative means of addressing them. Engage in dialogue, use established channels of communication, and seek resolutions through peaceful and constructive means. Our committee is always ready to facilitate these discussions and work towards solutions that benefit everyone.
“In this crucial time, let us stand united against those who seek to exploit our differences. Let us be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the peace and stability of our community. Together, we can ensure that our voices are heard without compromising our security.
“The PCRC is committed to bridging the gap between the police and the community. We believe that through collaboration and mutual understanding, we can address the concerns of the public while ensuring that law and order are maintained. Our collective goal should be to build a safe and prosperous Nigeria where the rights of all citizens are respected and protected.”he said.
