By Abiola Olawale
The Federal Government (FG) of Nigeria has officially designated all correctional facilities nationwide as “Red Zones.”
The government announced that the move is a security measure implemented in response to escalating nationwide protests demanding the immediate release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
In a public notice on Sunday, by Umar Abubakar, the spokesperson of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), the service announced that the decision was aimed at fortifying the country’s custodial centres against potential attacks or breaches linked to the continuous civil unrest.
The New Diplomat reports that the “Red Zone” classification signifies a critical national security status, imposing stringent guidelines and restricted access to all correctional centres.
“All correctional centres are declared as Red Zones. Anyone who has no official business therein should stay off to avoid any untoward incidents or security breaches,” the statement read.
The Service urged citizens to exercise caution and cooperate fully with security agencies to maintain peace and order during the planned demonstrations.
It emphasised that the measure was a proactive security step to safeguard the facilities, staff, and inmates in light of intelligence reports suggesting possible attempts to infiltrate or attack correctional centres during the protests.
“It is equally important to respect restricted areas such as correctional facilities,” the spokesperson added.
The development comes as the convener of the ##FreeNnamdiKanuNow protests, Omoyele Sowore, declared that more than 115 lawyers, medical personnel, and journalists have been mobilised to support the nationwide protests.
He said the mobilisation for the rally had gained strong national traction, with activities extending to marketplaces, religious centres, and high-profile engagements, including meetings with former President Goodluck Jonathan and diaspora groups.
“Mobilisation is powerful, national mobilisation that took us to marketplaces, religious centres, and high-profile meetings, including with former President Goodluck Jonathan and diaspora interests, multiple state teams activated, people flying in, and many local convergences already organised.
“The legal team (115 lawyers), medics, and media teams are in place. Expect a large, disciplined turnout in Abuja and coordinated actions in multiple states and Nigerian embassies, “ he said.
