The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Mr Mohammed Usaini Gumel, has revealed that the police have uncovered plans by certain religious and political groups to cause disturbances during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in the state.
During an interactive meeting with strategic managers, tactical and operational commanders, as well as representatives of traditional authorities, held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Kano, CP Gumel disclosed the existence of these plots and assured that appropriate measures have been taken to address the situation.
He warned the identified troublemakers and their sponsors to desist from their plans or face the full force of the law, emphasising the commitment of the police and other security agencies to maintain peace and safety during the festive period.
CP Gumel highlighted specific areas of concern and stated that heightened security measures have been implemented, particularly in locations prone to insecurity.
He urged residents and visitors to feel at ease during the festivities, assuring them of adequate security arrangements.
His words: “I wish to announce that the Kano State Police Command is aware of evil plans by some already identified religious and political pressure groups to disregard the ongoing judicial processes such as the matter before the court on Sheikh Abduljabbar Nasiru Kabara and the pressure to speak on issues related to the status of the Emirates and Emirship in the state.
“These plans which have been uncovered show that there are some enemies of the state that aimed to disrupt the Sallah activities, the entire existing peace in the state, and to cause embarrassment to the state government.
“As remedial action, we have heavily strengthened security with increased surveillance around the flash locations where these insecurity elements are clustering; in particular are Kofar Nassarawa, Kofar Mata, Kofar Wambai and Kofar Kudu. We are aware of all these and we are fully ready to decisively deal with this ill-fated decision unless the planners change for better.
“Also, be aware that the sponsors of this plan are under our close watch; they are advised to stop forthwith, as security agencies are following up and trailing the event, and the planners would be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.
“For the law-abiding residents and tourists, please note that the following security advisories are for ensuring that the Sallah festivities period go hitch-free: Worshippers going to Eid Praying Grounds are advised to avoid carrying offensive objects that may trigger suspicions or apprehension.
“People are encouraged to be vigilant and report any suspicious movement of persons or items to the nearest police station; parents/guardians should prevail on their underaged children and unlicensed persons from operating or racing with motor vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles while going to Eid praying grounds and places of visit.
“Road users are advised to observe traffic rules and regulations and are warned to desist from reckless driving, car-racing, over-loading and dangerous driving; parents/guardians should always accompany their children with adults while going to Eid Praying grounds to checkmate cases of missing children, accidents, or any unsolicited dealings.
“Any group or individual under whatever guise is warned to desist from any act or conduct that will cause a breach of peace and breakdown of law and order.
“Whoever is caught engaging in such activities will face the full wrath of the law; display of political parties’ symbols such as billboards, posters are instruments of misinterpretations and ultimate breakdown of law and order. Politicians are advised to prevail on their supporters to see Sallah as a celebration of unity and tradition.
“Already, all the Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical and Operational Commanders have been directed to contain any form of security threat in their Areas of Responsibilities (AORs).
“The Operational Order adopted has sufficient personnel detailed and adequately mobilised to provide security at all the praying grounds and festival locations across the state.”
