Operatives of the Nigerian Police have arrested Suleiman Yakubu for clamouring for the destruction of critical state and private infrastructures during the planned hunger protest.
The police, in a Tuesday press briefing signed by ASP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, mentioned that Yakubu had threatened to burn filing stations, banks, and police stations during the protest.
Yakubu, a resident of Jos, Plateau State, in a now viral TikTok video, urged residents to unleash mayhem during the forthcoming nationwide hunger protest.
The Police in the press briefing, mentioned that “during interrogation, Mr. Yakubu confessed to being the individual in the viral video but has not been able to explain his motivation for such statements with severe criminal implications.”
The police while emphasizing their determination in maintaining law and order in the country, stated that “emphasize that the Nigeria Police will not tolerate any attempts by mischief-makers to destabilize the country or incite violence.”
The police statement reads, “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 infrastructure.
“Upon receiving this information, the Nigeria Police Force in Plateau State, with support from relevant stakeholders, traced the suspect’s location to Ahmadu Bello Way. On 28th July 2024, Suleiman Yakubu, a 34-year-old 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 motivation for such statements with severe criminal implications. He is currently in police custody as we continue our investigations.
“In 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 organisers 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 emphasise that the Nigeria Police will not tolerate any attempts by mischief-makers to destabilise the country or incite violence.
“We remain committed to maintaining peace and order and urge everyone to exercise their right to protest responsibly and within the bounds of the law.”
