By Miriam Humbe
The Nigeria Police Force said it had arrested a young man who in a viral video called on the public to attack petrol stations, security operatives and destroy critical state and private infrastructure.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, (FPRO) disclosed this during a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday.
The 34 years old suspect is with a Tik Tok account, Dan_Mallam68.
The organisers of the protests against economic hardship have slated the action to take place between August 1 to 10, 2024.
Adejobi said following the infamous post on the planned nationwide protest, the Force had received credible intelligence, indicating that certain individuals were allegedly planning to infiltrate the protest and cause chaos.
He said: “The video, originating from a TikTok account identified as ‘Dan_Mallam68,’ showed the suspect provocatively urging the public to attack petrol stations, security operatives, and destroy critical state and private infrastructures.
“Upon receiving this information, the Nigeria Police Force in Plateau State, with support from relevant stakeholders, traced the suspect’s location to Ahmadu Bello Way.
“On 28th July 2024, Suleiman Yakubu, a 34-year-old resident of Jos North, was successfully apprehended.”
The Police spokesperson said that during interrogation, Yakubu confessed to being the individual in the viral video, but had not been able to explain his motivation for such statements with severe criminal implications.
He confirmed that the suspect was currently in police custody as the Police Force continued investigations.
He said: “In the light of the planned nationwide protest, we have received credible intelligence indicating that certain individuals are planning to infiltrate the protest and cause chaos.
“It is crucial for the leaders and organisers of the protest to interface with the police, providing us with vital information such as contact details for ease of communication, locations, routes, and schedules.
“This collaboration will enable us to deploy our personnel effectively, ensuring the safety and security of all participants and the general public.
“It is imperative to emphasise that the Nigeria Police will not tolerate any attempts by mischief-makers to destabilise the country or incite violence.”
Adejobi said that the Force remained committed to maintaining peace and order.
He therefore urged individuals to exercise their right to protest responsibly and within the ambit of the law.
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