The Oyo State Police Command has alerted the public about alleged plots by thugs to attack and loot banks, shopping malls, and other establishments in the state.
This was stated in a statement signed on Friday by the Command Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, who noted that intelligence indicated that unscrupulous people had planned to hijack the march and cause absolute chaos.
Osifeso listed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices, media houses, schools, Correctional Centers, and other important infrastructure in the state as targets.
People took to the streets in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, to protest the scarcity of new naira notes, which has been a source of concern in major towns and cities across Nigeria.
Protesters have shut down major roads in Iwo, the Agodi gate, and the State secretariat due to a lack of fuel and naira.
The police advised youths to avoid being used by agents of violence trying to “capitalise on the situation to criminally enrich themselves.
The Command is fully prepared to mobilise fully to prevent these criminal elements from turning into their playground,” the statement said.
The spokesperson announced the security agency’s commencement of intensive patrols to provide comprehensive security across Oyo.
Meanwhile, commissioner of Police, Adebowale Williams advised residents to go about their lawful businesses without fear of harassment or molestation.