The Nigeria Police Force has directed Commissioners of Police across the country to immediately tighten security in response to rising tensions in the Middle East. Acting Inspector General of Police Tunji Disu warned that Nigeria will not serve as a battleground for foreign conflicts, emphasizing that any attempt to import external ideological or religious tensions into the country will be met with the full force of the law.
The police directive is a proactive measure to prevent any potential fallout from global developments, with special attention given to the North West, North East, and North Central zones. Commissioners have been instructed to intensify surveillance and intelligence gathering, boost visible policing around worship centres and public spaces, and work closely with traditional and religious leaders.
The move is aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the country, with the police force reassuring Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. The Acting IGP, Tunji Disu, urged community leaders to continue promoting peaceful coexistence and called on citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding.
The police statement comes after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior officials, triggering large-scale counterattacks and explosions in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and other Gulf nations.
In response to the escalating tensions, the Nigerian government has issued travel advisories for its citizens in Iran and Gulf countries, urging them to exercise maximum caution amid the hostilities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also called for de-escalation and restraint by all parties involved.
The Nigeria Police Force has assured citizens that it remains resolute, prepared, and fully committed to safeguarding every Nigerian and maintaining national security at all times. The force is working closely with traditional and religious leaders to promote peace and stability.