The Nigerian government has ramped up security around its 256 correctional facilities, designating them as “red zones” ahead of the nationwide protest planned for August 1.
Haliru Nababa, head of the Nigerian Correctional Service, issued a statement on Tuesday, warning protesters to stay away from the prisons due to the risk of chaos and increased insecurity. Nababa emphasized that these facilities are “critical national assets which are germane to public safety as well as national security,” and the government is determined to prevent them from becoming targets during the demonstrations.
To reinforce security, the government has deployed a special task force to guard the prisons, preparing for any potential unrest during the upcoming protests. By labelling these areas as “red zones,” officials hope to deter protesters and avoid a repeat of past incidents where prisons have been targeted during periods of unrest.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
