Anambra Police caution against protests in Awka amid ongoing anti-cult operations

Stanley Ihedigbo

Anambra State Police Command has advised individuals, organisations, and pressure groups to desist from organising or participating in any form of march or street protest within Awka, the state capital, citing concerns over public safety, peace, and the maintenance of public order.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Command noted that the advisory became necessary in view of the significant security gains recently recorded in the fight against cultism and other violent crimes across the state.

According to the Police, sustained intelligence-led operations, strategic patrols, targeted arrests, and strengthened community-based policing initiatives have contributed greatly to the relative calm currently being enjoyed in Awka and its environs.

SP Ikenga disclosed that just two days ago, police operatives engaged in a fierce gun battle that led to the neutralisation of a confessed member of the Vikings Confraternity’s strike squad. The suspect, he said, was allegedly on a mission to retaliate the killing of one of their members by a rival cult group at Enugwu Agidi.

The Command warned that unauthorised marches or street protests could undermine these security gains, heighten tension, disrupt public peace, and obstruct lawful social and economic activities, thereby causing unnecessary inconvenience to law-abiding citizens.

While acknowledging the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, the Police stressed that such rights must be exercised responsibly and strictly within the confines of the law.

“Unauthorised marches, street occupations, or protests that obstruct traffic, disrupt commercial activities, or constitute public nuisance will not be tolerated,” the statement read.

The Command therefore urged organisers of protests and interest groups to adopt constructive and lawful channels of engagement, including dialogue with relevant authorities, submission of petitions, and collaboration with appropriate stakeholders, rather than resorting to street actions capable of creating fear or tension.

Members of the public were also advised to remain calm, go about their lawful activities, and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities capable of breaching public peace to the nearest police formation.

The Anambra State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to proactive policing and assured residents of its resolve to maintain a safe and secure environment for all.