Buhari arrives Force Headquarters to unveil vehicles, anti-riot cannons

The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), has arrived Louis Edet House, Force Headquarters, Abuja, to unveil a wide range assortment of operational assets acquired to strategically improve on the operational capabilities of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly in crowd control and anti-riot operations.

Other dignitaries present are the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade, the acting Chairperson of the Police Service Commission, Justice Clara Ogunbiyi, the Minister of Police Affairs, Mohammed Dingyadi, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice-Admiral Awwal Gambo, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amao, our correspondent observed.

The PUNCH had earlier reported that the host, the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, had invited the President to unveil the equipment which include a total of 127 operational vehicles such as Toyota Hilux Pick Up vans, Zahab Classic Pick Up vans, Mikano Rich-6 Pick Up vans, anti-riot water cannons, Armored Personnel Carriers, Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Jeeps, Toyota Coaster Buses, Toyota Hiace Ambulances, Mikano Trucks, and Crowd Control Barriers Vehicles.

Similarly, a large catchment of arms, ammunition, riot control agents such as tear gas, tasers, stun guns, pepper sprays, bulletproof vests, helmets, and other personal protective equipment procured by the police will also be unveiled by the president.

The IGP expressed the eagerness of the NPF to ensure a safe and secure environment for law-abiding citizens to express their franchise during the 2023 general election.

He also warned all intending troubleshooters to be wary as the police had been adequately trained and equipped for strategic deployment before, during, and after the elections for the enforcement of extant laws regulating the conduct of elections in Nigeria; and strengthening the general security and public safety across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

(Punch)