Police cite intelligence, ask NLC to shift planned Abuja protest

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to reschedule its planned protest in Abuja, citing security intelligence suggesting a possible infiltration by violent groups.

The police made the appeal in a statement signed by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, on Monday.

According to the statement, the command is aware of the NLC FCT Council’s planned peaceful protest scheduled to hold on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, within the Federal Capital Territory.

“While the command recognises and respects the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and protest, and remains committed to providing adequate security for all lawful activities, intelligence reports at the disposal of the police indicate plans by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria and other non-state actors to infiltrate and hijack the protest for purposes inimical to public peace and security,” the statement said.

The police explained that the appeal to reschedule the protest was made in the overriding interest of public safety, warning that the alleged infiltration could lead to a breakdown of law and order.

“In view of the above, and in the overriding interest of public safety, the FCT Police Command respectfully appeals to the organisers of the planned protest to consider rescheduling the activity to a later date and time,” the command stated.

The police added that the request was aimed at preventing violence and ensuring that the rights of other residents, including freedom of movement and the conduct of lawful daily activities, were not disrupted.

The command further assured residents of Abuja of its commitment to the protection of lives and property, urging the public to continue cooperating with security agencies to maintain peace and security in the territory.