From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Police Nigeria Police Force yesterday paraded a social media influencer, Suleiman Yakubu, for inciting violence against the state ahead of the planned protest against hunger and bad governance.
According to Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, the suspect had provocatively urged the public to attack petrol stations, security operatives, and destroy critical state and private infrastructures during the protest schedule for August 1-10, across the country.
Adejobi, in a statement, said the suspect in a video originating from a TikTok account : “Dan_Mallam68,” that went viral was seen inciting the public.
The FPRO, in the statement, said: “As you are all aware, a video recently went viral on TikTok, where an individual incited violence against state critical infrastructures, law enforcement agencies, and private individuals in Plateau State, in connection with the planned nationwide protest. The video, originating from a TikTok account identified as “Dan_Mallam68,” showed the suspect provocatively urging the public to attack petrol stations, security operatives, and destroy critical state and private infrastructures.
“Upon receiving this information, the police in Plateau State, with the support from relevant stakeholders, traced the suspect’s location to Ahmadu Bello Way. On July 28,2024, Suleiman Yakubu, 34, resident of Jos North, was successfully apprehended. During interrogation, Mr. Yakubu confessed to being the individual in the viral video, but has not been able to explain his motive for such statements with severe criminal implications. He is currently in police custody as we continue our investigations.
“In the light of the planned nationwide protest, we have received credible intelligence indicating that certain individuals are planning to infiltrate the protest and cause chaos. It is crucial for the leaders and organizers of the protest to interface with the police, providing us with vital information such as contact details for ease of communication, locations, routes, and schedules. This collaboration will enable us to deploy our personnel effectively, ensuring the safety and security of all participants and the general public.
“It is imperative to emphasize that the police will not tolerate any attempts by mischief-makers to destabilize the country or incite violence. We remain committed to maintaining peace and order and urge everyone to exercise his or her right to protest responsibly and within the bounds of the law.”