Olawunmi Ajibike
The Nigeria Police Force has moved to a state of heightened vigilance nationwide as a precautionary response to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, issued a comprehensive security directive from Force Headquarters in Abuja to ensure that global conflicts do not trigger unrest or sectarian divisions within Nigeria.
Although the police leadership affirmed that the country’s internal security remains stable and under control, Disu has instructed Commissioners of Police across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to adopt proactive, intelligence-driven policing strategies.
The directive places particular focus on the North West, North East, and North Central regions, where surveillance and intelligence-gathering operations are being intensified to identify and address potential flashpoints before they escalate.
“As part of the strengthened security posture, visibility policing has been increased, with more uniformed officers deployed to protect public spaces and places of worship.
The Force is also deepening collaboration with traditional and religious leaders to promote communal harmony and prevent the spread of external ideological tensions within local communities.”
Reaffirming its position, the Nigeria Police Force stated firmly that Nigeria will not become a ground for foreign conflicts. Authorities warned that any individual or group attempting to exploit international developments to incite unrest will face the full weight of the law.
As these measures take effect, Disu called on community leaders to continue championing peace, while urging Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding. He also encouraged citizens to promptly report suspicious activities or inflammatory gatherings to the nearest police formation to safeguard national stability