The FCT command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has cautioned protesters to desist from vandalising critical national assets and infrastructure (CNAI) in the territory during Monday’s protests.

The NSCDC FCT commandant, Olusola Odumosu, said this during an interview with journalists on Sunday in Abuja.

Separate groups have organised protests on Monday for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Mr Odumosu called on citizens, in support or against the planned rallies, to adhere strictly to the provisions of the court order.

“The corps will not condone any form of vandalism or theft of public and private facilities, all in the name of protest,” he said.

He said the corps had massively deployed officers and men to protect all CNAI, as well as ensure the protection of residents across the FCT before, during and after the protests.

“We are prepared as always to ensure there are no incidents of destruction of properties or threats to the peace in the territory.

“The deployed men were drawn from the special forces of the corps, and they have been properly briefed on the precautions to adhere to during the rally,” he said.

Mr Odumosu said personnel had been warned to avoid accidental discharge, harassment or intimidation of anyone, as no indiscipline or over-zealousness will be condoned.

He further urged the deployed men to be civil by adopting the non-kinetic approach while carrying out the mandates of the corps.

The commandant, however, warned those with the intention of hijacking or disrupting the proposed peaceful protests to desist, as anyone caught with criminal intentions will be arrested and dealt with according to the extant laws.

(NAN)