The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olukayode Egbetokun, has placed all police units on red alert following incidences of violence recorded in the ongoing protest.
Egbetokun made the announcement at a media briefing on Thursday in Abuja.
He said the events in some major cities in the country on Day-1 of the protest showed that the protest had turned to be mass uprising and looting.
According to him, those who were in the forefront of promoting the idea of the protest were not around to lead it.
He said hoodlums have been let loose on innocent Nigerians and their hard-earned businesses and property looted and destroyed.
The police boss said the motive of the rioters was basically two; to loot and destroy both private and government property.
Egbetokun said the destruction so far had been mind-boggling, adding that there were destruction in Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT, Niger and Jigawa States.
He said police stations had been destroyed with attempts in some states to take over government houses and looting government infrastructures.
The I-G said several warehouses and shops had so far been looted and in several instances, completely destroyed.
“In the light of the current situation, the Nigeria Police Force has placed all units on red alert.
“Our officers are fully mobilised and prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any further threats to public safety and order.
“We remain committed and resolute to protecting life and property and ensuring that law and order are maintained across the nation,” he said.
He called on groups, hiding under the guise of exercising a right provided in the constitution to destabilise the country, to remember that the same constitution imposed on them to obey the laws of the land.
According to him, the Police is equipped to respond appropriately to the unfolding situation and will get assistance from other security agencies, including the military if the need arises.
Egbetokun appealed to law abiding citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the police and other security agencies.
”Your safety is our top priority and we will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure continued peace and stability in our country,” he said.