The Oyo state Commissioner of Police, CP. Adebowale Williams, on Friday, called for calm among residents of the state over protests by some irate youths in Ibadan as a result of scarcity of fuel and new naira notes.
The police boss made the call while reacting to the protest which disrupted commercial activities in the state.
A press statement issued by the state Police Command made available to newsmen by its Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Adewale Osifeso urged parents and guardians to call their wards to order and to shun any act capable of causing breach of public peace.
It will be recalled that some angry youths in their hundred stormed the state Secretariat, forcing their way into the government facility in what could be described as aggressive protest leaving one police officer injured and some properties vandalized.
The angry protesters also disrupted business activities and vehicular movement in Iwo Road, Monatan, and Bus stop Gate where the vandalized a police station and Some banks in the area.
However, the police statement urged the public to stay calm and maintain peace even amidst pockets of protest that have emanated at different parts of the metropolis over hike in fuel pump price and unavailability of cash for dispense at ATM machines and Point of sales Terminal especially within the Capital.
The police command stated that available intelligence at its disposal revealed that certain unscrupulous elements have perfected plans to hijack the process, escalating the situation into full scale chaos by shutting down and attacking places of interest which includes but not limited to INEC facilities, Banks, Media houses, Schools, Correctional Centers and other critical infrastructures inclusive of looting major malls and business centers within the State.
The statement reads: “Member of the public are hereby advised especially with reference to the youth segment to avoid being used by agents of violence who want to capitalize on the situation to criminally enrich themselves especially as we navigate towards the 2023 General Elections as the Command is fully prepared to mobilize fully to prevent these criminal elements from turning Oyo State into their Playground.
“Consequent on the above, Residents would witness high octane Patrols in concert with relevant sister security agency all in a bid to Heighten the level of confidence of residents and as well reassure them of the commitments of the Oyo State Police Command at providing comprehensive security for all residents in the State.
“Lastly, the good people of Oyo State are advised to go about their businesses without fear of harassment or molestation as the relative tranquility within cannot be negotiated with unscrupulous and criminal elements.