The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Jigawa has deployed 1,000 personnel to protect critical national assets during the planned nationwide protest slated to begin on August 1.

The NSCDC commandant in Jigawa, Muhammad Danjuma, stated this during a meeting with officers of the command in Dutse on Tuesday.

He also warned the personnel against harassing, molesting or shooting protesters.

Mr Danjuma tasked the personnel to focus on the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure as well as private properties.

“This emergency meeting is about the nationwide protest that is about to happen, or it has even started now in some states. The commandant-general tasked us that on no account, I repeat, on no account will any civil defender harass, molest or shoot and kill any protester,” he said.

The commandant, who acknowledged the citizens’ right to protest, said the corps would not condone violence and vandalism of assets.

While reiterating his commitment to provide maximum security to the protesters and law-abiding citizens, Mr Danjuma warned against the wanton destruction of public and private properties.

Mr Danuma said, “In a situation where they (protesters) try to pass their boundary by destroying any property, either government or individual, that is where the Corps will take care of that property.

“But if you shoot and kill, harass or molest any protester, then you’re on your own, that’s what the CG said.

“We’re here for the protesters, we’re here to protect them doing their lawful protest. But in a situation where they turn it upside down, the reverse will be the case.”

The commandant also urged Jigawa residents to be law abiding and shun acts capable of disrupting relative peace in the state. 

(NAN)