OWERRI, Nigeria – The Imo State Police Command has called on residents to disregard the sit-at-home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, ensuring them safety as they do their daily activities.
Commissioner of Police, CP, for Imo State Command, CP Mohammed Barde, announced this on Sunday, July 30, 2023, during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Owerri, Imo State.
“I want to use this medium to call on Imolites to disregard the illegal sit-at-home order and go about their lawful businesses without fear of molestation or attack,” said CP Barde.
He emphasized that the command and other security agencies have implemented adequate security measures to maintain peace and ensure that those found to violate the law are dealt with appropriately.
“The Command and other security agencies have put in place adequate security measures to checkmate any breach of peace, and anyone found complicit will be made to face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.
CP Barde also addressed recent reports circulating on social media claiming that hoodlums attacked and burned the popular Hassan Market Avu, confirming that these reports were false.
He explained that the incident at the market was a fire outbreak that resulted in property loss but no fatalities.
“For clarity, I wish to inform you that, the incident that happened at the market was a fire outbreak that led to loss of properties. No life was lost in the inferno, and it’s under investigation, and the outcome of our investigation will be made known to the public,” he clarified.
The statement by the Imo State Police Command comes as a direct response to IPOB’s sit-at-home order, seeking to instill confidence in residents and encourage them to continue with their normal routines.
It is part of the ongoing efforts by the Nigerian government and security forces to curb the activities of separatist groups in the southeastern region of the country.
The assurance from the police also signals potential violators that law enforcement agencies are prepared to enforce the law strictly and will not tolerate any form of disruption to peace and public order.
The situation in Imo State will likely continue to be closely monitored by both local authorities and federal agencies as they work to maintain stability and ensure the security of residents.
