Nasarawa Police Issue Stern Warning Against Planned Lafia Street Protest

The Nasarawa State Police Command has strongly advised against a planned public demonstration in Lafia, the state capital, urging its organizers and prospective participants to pursue lawful and alternative avenues for expressing their concerns.

In an official statement released by SP Ramhan Nansel, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), the command revealed that the intended protest is reportedly being orchestrated by a collective identified as Concern Women in Politics, Lafia Local Government chapter. This group had allegedly issued a call for approximately 10,000 women to gather on the streets on August 17, 2026. Their grievances reportedly stem from what they describe as the arbitrary apprehension and unlawful detention of individuals believed to be supporters of retired Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar-Adamu.

Commissioner of Police, Shetima Mohammed, while acknowledging the constitutional right of citizens to voice their grievances through legitimate channels, expressed strong reservations about the proposed street protest. He specifically cited the delicate security climate currently prevailing in Lafia as a primary concern. The Police Commissioner, however, encouraged the planners and potential participants to engage with relevant authorities through dialogue and other recognized legal means to address their perceived injustices.

Mohammed further cautioned that open street gatherings carry the inherent risk of being exploited by hoodlums, potentially infringing upon the rights of other members of the public. Such actions, he warned, could also disrupt essential socio-economic activities and pose a significant threat to the peace and overall security of the state. He reassured residents of the command's unwavering commitment to upholding the fundamental rights of citizens and maintaining peace and public order across Nasarawa State.

The Police Commissioner concluded with a stern warning, stating that security agencies would not permit any individual or group to undermine the existing peace in the state. He emphasized that anyone found engaging in activities capable of breaching public peace, obstructing lawful operations, destroying property, assaulting individuals, or violating any law would face immediate arrest and prosecution in line with established legal provisions. Finally, he appealed to the residents of Lafia and the entire state to remain calm, abide by the law, maintain peace, and resist any attempts to utilize the proposed demonstration as a platform to incite disorder or jeopardize the tranquility of Nasarawa State.