THE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command beefed up security in the nation’s capital on Friday, April 21, as residents marked the Eid el-Fitr celebrations.
Units of heavily armed policemen were seen at strategic locations in the FCT. Police patrol vans, conveying armed policemen, were also observed patrolling various streets as residents went about their activities.
At the Lugbe Praying Ground, a team of heavily armed police officers was seen providing security for the Muslim faithfuls who were observing the Eid el-Fitr prayers.
Security was also beefed up at the busy Berger Bridge Roundabout.
A team of heavily armed policemen in combat outfit was seen at the location.
It was the same scenario at several locations in the FCT, including Wuse Market, Banex, Area 1 bridge and others.
Police units were also observed at checkpoints along the expressway leading to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, had earlier on Thursday, April 20, charged Commissioners of Police (CPs) and Tactical Commanders in the 36 states and the FCT and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors, General of Police (AIGs), to beef-up security ahead of the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The IGP also ordered adequate deployment of officers and assets to critical locations, especially Eid Prayer Grounds and recreation centres, to build confidence amongst the citizens and fun seekers.
The Police boss charged officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to critically assess threat-prone areas, and engage in stop and search, raids on black spots, and other anti-crime strategies to sustain peace and public safety across the country during the festive period.
The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) Muyiwa Adejobi, who disclosed the IGP’s directive in a statement, said policemen deployed for the celebrations were warned to be professional and mindful of the fundamental rights of the citizens while discharging their responsibilities with all sense of decorum and alertness.
“The IGP congratulates the entire Muslim ummah in the country on the forthcoming Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, which is a culmination of the Ramadan period.
“He has also assured of continued efforts aimed at decimating crimes and criminality and improving Public safety and security across the country.
“In the same vein, the IGP enjoined Muslim faithful to celebrate and enjoy the beauty of the significant season while remaining security conscious,” Adejobi stated.
A reporter with the ICIR
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