As the nation braces for a widespread protest starting on August 1, 2024, the Western Port Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police; Olanrewaju Olawale Ishola, has reiterated its commitment to protecting port facilities and ensuring smooth flow of economic activities.
Emphasizing the constitutional right to a peaceful assembly, Ishola warned against any disruptions of port operations, pledging strict enforcement of free passage on port access roads and a robust response to any unlawful activities.
According to the press statement signed by the Command’s spokesman, ASP Isaac Hundeyin, he noted that the comprehensive deployment of human and operational resources has been executed across various key port locations.
These, he added include Apapa Port, Tincan Island Port, Lekki Deep Sea Port, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (phase 1 & 2), Ikorodu Lighter Terminal, Oil logistics and offshore support terminals, oil tanker terminals, private and government-owned jetties, bonded warehouses, transit trailer parks, Nigerdock integrated port and free zone on Snake Island, and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Corporate Headquarters in Marina, Lagos.
The command issued a clear warning to potential troublemakers intending to exploit the protest, stating that any attempts at incursion through waterways, forceful entry into port complexes, or road blockages will be met with strong resistance in accordance with the law.
In the statement, Ishola assured continuous collaboration with maritime stakeholders, unions, and the business community, even as he highlighted the command’s dedication to using actionable intelligence and working in synergy with other security agencies to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
