By Patrick Titus, Uyo
As Akwa Ibom state government has positioned activities to host President Ahmed Tinubu in Uyo, the state capital on Friday (today) the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, said the Command, in collaboration with other relevant security agencies, has put in place robust security arrangements to guarantee a peaceful, orderly and hitch-free Presidential visit.
CP Azare, who disclosed this while addressing journalists at the Police Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo, the state capital on Wednesday (yesterday), announced series of security strategies, urging members of the public to comply strictly by it
The Commissioner explained that the measures are aimed at ensuring adequate security, maintaining public order,
safeguard lives and property, facilitating the smooth movement of the Presidential convoy and providing a safe and secure environment for the President’s engagements and other scheduled activities during his visit.
As part of the security measures, the Commissioner of Police announced a total restriction on the operation and flying of drones within Uyo metropolis throughout the period of the Presidential visit.
He explained that the restriction is a proactive security measure intended to safeguard restricted airspace, protect critical locations and prevent any potential security breach. Members of the public, drone operators and relevant service providers are therefore advised to strictly comply with this directive.
The Commissioner further announced a ban on the use of fireworks, knockouts and other explosive sound-producing devices within the state capital during the period of the visit.
“This measure is intended to prevent unnecessary panic, eliminate avoidable security distractions and ensure that security personnel can respond effectively to any genuine security concern. Residents and business operators are strongly advised to adhere to this directive.” CP said.
To ensure the seamless movement of the Presidential convoy and effective security coverage, the Command has announced temporary restrictions on public access to designated routes and strategic locations within Uyo metropolis.
“The affected routes and locations include: Airport Road, Shelter Afrique Junction, Oron Road, Nung Oku Junction Mbierebe Junction and Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
“Members of the public are advised to avoid these routes during the period of restriction and make adequate use of alternative routes to reach their destinations. Motorists are particularly urged to plan their journeys ahead, exercise patience and cooperate fully with traffic and security personnel deployed along the affected corridors.”
The Commissioner of Police therefore appealed to residents to appreciate, stressing that these temporary restrictions are necessary security arrangements and not intended to inflict hardship on the public. He assured that the measures are being implemented in the overall interest of public safety and the successful conduct of the Presidential visit.
While acknowledging the inconvenience that the temporary movement restrictions may cause, the Command sincerely regrets any disruption to the normal movement of residents and visitors. It, however, solicits the understanding, patience and cooperation of all members of the public, stressing that public safety remains paramount.
