Youths in Lafia Local Government Area of Nasarawa State have opted out of the ongoing nationwide protests against the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
On Thursday, our correspondent conducted a tour of Lafia, the capital city of Nasarawa State, to assess the situation. The observation revealed that major roads, including Makurdi/Jos and Shandam roads, leading to the Government House in Lafia, were eerily empty.
Meanwhile, security personnel were strategically positioned at key points, vigilant and ready to respond to any potential disturbances or breaches of peace in the area.
Also, the streets of Lafia metropolis were characterized by a sense of calm, as citizens went about their daily routines and businesses unhindered, with no reports of harassment or molestation.
Other areas visited by our correspondent in the Lafia LG include UAC, Kwandere, and Makurdi roads.
At the locations, youths, market men and women were seen going about their lawful businesses in a peaceful manner without any hindrance or molestation from security operatives in the state.
Our correspondent further gathered that the situation is generally peaceful across the 13 LGs of the state as there are no forms of violence or signs of destruction of government properties.
Although, our correspondent observed that some shop owners put their shops under lock and key probably for fear of being attacked by the protesters.
The Commissioner of Police, Umar Nadada was seen in a convoy going around the state capital alongside other security agencies to ensure that there was no form of violence, infringement on any citizen rights and destruction of properties in the state.
Our correspondent also observed that black marketers on the roadsides had deserted their various petrol stands.
Also, security personnel have been mobilised to protect the Correctional Centre (prison) in Lafia to prevent any disruption and unforeseen circumstances during the demonstration period.
The Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State sent a clear message to would-be agitators, cautioning them against causing unrest in the state. He also instructed his officers to prioritize the protection of peaceful protesters, safeguarding their right to assemble and express themselves without fear of violence or reprisal.
