POLICE BANS GATHERINGS AT NATION'S AIRPORTS

The Nigerian Police has announced a ban on gatherings, receptions and carnivals at the nation’s airports, saying the facilities were exclusive security zones. The announcement was issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Frank Mba. The statement said the ban was part of efforts to avert any security breach and to protect critical infrastructure, travellers, aircrew, airport staff and personnel at the airports. It said the ban had been placed on political, socio-cultural or religious gathering within and around airport premises, including tarmacs, lounges and other sensitive security points. “Rising from a strategic security meeting at the Force Headquarters, the police authorities directed the Airport Commissioners of Police in states hosting the airports to ensure strict adherence to the directive. “In line with international best practices, firm security measures are taken to safeguard the airports and their critical infrastructure. “And to prevent a situation where the airports are turned into places of political assemblies, religious worship and other social receptions, ‘’ the statement said. According to the statement, there are enough civic centres, town halls, assembly halls for public meetings, carnivals and celebrations of all kinds. The statement said the force was not unaware of the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freedom of movement and assembly, but not to affect the security of the nation. It said that the police believed that the enjoyment of these rights must be situated within the bounds of the law and appropriate civil behaviour. The force implored Nigerians to cooperate with the police in their effort to improve the maintenance of effective safety and security at all the airports. It called on Nigerians, political and opinion leaders, to assist the police in their education and enlightenment drives. “We expect you to help us talk to your fans, admirers, supporters and followers on the need to abide by the rules; failure to comply will attract appropriate legal sanctions,” it stated.