President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday told the quarterly meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) that he would not allow a repeat of the #EndSARS protests that was eventual hijacked by hoodlums, and resulted in vandalism and murders in the country recently.
The Minister of Police Affairs, Muhammad Dingyadi, disclosed this while briefing journalist on the outcome of the meeting that Buhari summoned at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
According to him: “Mr. President thanked members for the efforts they are making in maintains peace and assured members that he will do whatever it takes to support security agencies in providing peace in the country.
“Mr. President assured Nigerians that he will do whatever it takes to ensure the repeat of #EndSARS protests does not occur in Nigeria again.
“Mr. President reassured that all stakeholders will be involved in the process of maintaining peace in the country, particularly the youth, community leaders, traditional rulers, politicians, public servants, religious leaders etc
“The Federal Government will continue to maintain its bureaucratic, humane and just postures in handling security matters in the country.”
Asked whether not allowing a repeat of #EndSARS meant a crackdown on potential protesters, the Minister replied: “What we are saying is that government will continue to dialogue, it will continue to listen and will continue to carry all stakeholders along in ensuring that there is no repeat of what happened that destroyed a lot of properties, public and private, individuals in this country.”
Dingyadi said the Council reviewed the security situation of the country and noted with concern the increasing rate of armed banditry, particularly in the Northwest and Northeast.
He stated that the Council, therefore, resolved to be proactive and to take decision actions to bring the situation under control.
Besides, more attention would be paid to the police by supplying them modern equipment to enable them to discharge their functions effectively.
