THE SITUATION
Allegations of extra-judicial killings and maltreatment by some
members the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad have led to a
series of nation-wide protests with initial focus in Delta, Lagos,
Osun and Abuja. During these protests, protesters have
engaged officers of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and there
have been allegations of shootings, use of tear gas, use of water
cannons and wilful destruction of public property.
RISK FACTORS
The heightened risks faced during this period include
Damage of property: including fire outbreaks, water
damage, and outright vandalization.
Hoodlum attacks: While the grievances tabled may or
may not be real, the possibility exists that miscreants
and other undesirables may seize this as an opportunity
to perpetrate crime.
Risks less likely to occur include:
Loss of life: Persons caught up in the protests may be
killed as a result of being trampled, targeted by an
unruly mob or being caught up in the crossfire.
ADVISORY
Identify high risk areas:
Certain locations have been chosen for these protests. As such
these locations carry a heightened risk compared to other
places. For example, such locations within Lagos include the
Lekki Toll plaza to Ajah, the Secretariat in Alausa, Airports and
Lagos-Ibadan expressway. Plus Central Business District Abuja
Situational awareness and local media monitoring:
We expect that there would be a lot of movement during these
protests. Monitoring the situation on local media could help in
ascertaining the safety level of a place before movement. The
major platform being used for mass mobilization appears to be
twitter, amongst other platforms.
SECURITY OPERATING LEVEL
Elevated – Residents and business persons in areas where
planned protests have been scheduled or in the immediate
environs face an increased threat level and the possibility of
attacks are heightened.
PLACES TO AVOID
i. Sites of planned protests
ii. Government-owned buildings –
Considering the nature of the
protest, we may find mobs
obstructing free movement and
amassing in front of
government owned buildings.
iii. Major roads – intelligence
indicates that the protesters
will be blocking major roads
and thoroughfares to press
home their demands.
WHAT TO CARRY
i. A valid means of identification.
ii. Enough cash to facilitate ease
of movement.
iii. Emergency contact numbers
and a contact card
BASIC PRECAUTIONS
i. Avoid or be cautious of large
gatherings
ii. If you must, exercise your rights
with caution
iii. Live streaming or taking
pictures may blind sight you in
certain circumstance. Maintain
situational awareness
iv. Travel with caution, maintain a
flexible travel plan your and
consider virtual meetings for
the next five (5) working days
v. Keep loved ones informed of
your movements
vi. Businesses should review their
continuity plan and adjust
security operating levels
vii. CMT should be put on standby
and the evolving situation
should be closely monitored.
Speak to a risk consultant if you
must
Article first published by PR24 Security Limited.