By: Emmanuel Nlewedum
Rivers State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corp, NSCDC, has assured residents of the state of a save Christmas and new year celebration.
State Commandant of NSCDC, Aliyu Bature in a statement issued in Port Harcourt Wednesday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, ACC Oguntuase Michael said 1500 personnel have been deployed to all identified flaw points, recreation centers, worship centers and the various locations where the critical national assets and infrastructure are located in the state.
He noted that adequate measures have been put in place to arrest any act capable of undermining the already established peace in the state.
The statement called on residents of the state to assist the command and report all matters that could escalate or hamper free movement of persons during the season for prompt redress, adding that the command is open to receive complaints on matters that could cause security breach before, during and after the celebration.
The statement also warned illegal oil bunkerers and all those involved in pipeline vandalism in the state to repent find something more noble to engage in.
“In view of the foreknown, the Commandant is assuring the good people of the state of its commitment towards protection of life and properties of citizens in the state.
“The Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit has embarked on peace movement from ward to ward encouraging residents to report cases that could escalate and degenerate into serious conflict to the command in time.
“The Counter Terrorism and Disaster Management Team of the command has since commenced surveillance patrol round the state to ensure no security breach of any kind occurs during the celebration. And residents are also encouraged to avoid the storing of adulterated/Illegally refined petroleum products as well as their use of adulterated DPK (kerosene) in residential areas to avoid fire Disaster.
“Parents and guardians are hereby advised to caution their wards against night movements and indiscriminate use of firecrackers in residential areas as the command will not hesitate to arrest defaulters in the state.
“On this note, the State Commandant wish the good people of the state a Happy Christmas and New Year celebration in advance”.
