As the nationwide protest against hunger and bad Governance in Nigeria enters its second day, a concerned NGO group, the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria, ISPON, has issued a safety advisory to keep Nigerian citizens safe and secure while it lasts.
The safety and security advisory titled; Nationwide Protest: Safety and Precautionary Measures, succinctly states; In the light of the nationwide protest against poor governance, we strongly advise all citizens and other stakeholders to take the following precautions to ensure their safety and security. They are:
1. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with reliable news sources and official advisories. Curiously monitor reliable news sources and official advisory to stay updated on protest locations and changes in the situation.
2. Avoid Protests Areas: Steer clear of areas where protests are taking place to minimize the risk of encountering potential violence or disruptions.
3. Travel Wisely: Limit your travel, especially after dark. If you must go out, plan your route carefully and avoid isolated areas. Be prepared for possible police checks and have identification and necessary documents readily accessible.
4. Be Mindful of what you say: Be cautious about what you say, where you say it, and how you say it. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public spaces to reduce the risk of being misunderstood or unwanted attention.
5. Avoid Gatherings: Be wary of any informal gathering or open-air meetings, as these may be misconstrued as anti-government assemblies. Opt for private or secure venues for any necessary meetings.
6. Dress Simply and Smartly: To avoid drawing undue attention to your person, dress modestly and avoid clothing or accessories that could make you stand out.
7. Secure Your Home: Ensure that your residence is secure by locking doors and windows, and stay vigilant about any unusual activity in your neighborhood.
8. Plan Journeys and Engagements: Given the potential for disruptions in flights and other vehicular movements, plan all journeys and private social engagements before, during and after the first two weeks of August 2024.
9. Stock Up on Essentials: Stock up on food, especially non-perishable items, to prepare for potential disruptions in supply chains or access to markets. Ensure you have sufficient food and water to last for at least a week. This will reduce the need to go out and minimise exposure to any potential danger during the protests
10. Keep Emergency Kits ready, in a case of worst scenario: Be ready for the possibility of a nationwide curfew or movement restrictions. Take health precautions and arrange for advance medical care if needed. Ensure Emergency Kits such as first aid supplies, medications and personal hygiene products. If you have health issues or not feeling well, stay home and take care of yourself.
11. Plan for Power Outages: Prepare for potential power failures by having Alternative backup power options like generators, inverters, or rechargeable lamps. Also consider Renewable Energy sources such as Solar powered devices, to ensure you have light and power if needed.
12. Fill Up on Gas: Avoid shortages. Ensure your gas tank is full to avoid running out of fuel for cooking and other needs.
13. Charge your devices: Charge your phones and ensure you have enough credit or data to make and receive calls.
14. Financial Preparedness: Withdraw cash to last through the protest period, as ATM and POS services may become limited or expensive.
15. Emergency Contacts: Maintain a list of Emergency Contacts and familiarize yourself with local emergency services.
16. Incident Reporting: If you witness or are involved in any incident related to the protests, report them immediately to the relevant authorities for assistance and interventions using the following contact numbers:
– The Nigeria Police: 08033011052, 08056250710, 08033183477.
– Emergency Services Providers toll free lines: 112 or 767
-ISPON Lagos: State Chairman 0803 456 4044 and/or PRO 0803 090 2234
– Know the locations of each nearby shelters in case of emergencies.
17. Stay Connected: Keep in regular contact with family and friends. Inform them of your whereabouts and any change in your plan.
18. Stay indoors and remain calm: Remain indoors as much as possible to minimise exposure and potential dangers. Monitor developments outside through reliable news sources or updates from local authorities. Avoid unnecessary movements. In the event of any emergency, stay calm and follow the instructions provided by authorities.
19. Be mindful of your Mental Health: Stay mentally prepared by practicing stress-relief techniques and staying informed but not overwhelmed
20. Stay Vigilant, Stay Strong: Remain Alert and continuously assess your surroundings and stay Informed of any change in the situation. Maintain your preparedness and resilience throughout the period of the protest. Be your own security and take personal security responsibilities as police presence may be limited.
21. Safety Precautions: Follow general safety and security precautions such as locking doors and windows and being aware of emergency exits in your home or neighborhood in case you need to evacuate quickly.
Do take these precautions seriously to safeguard yourself and your family during this trying period of unrest as Your safety and that of your family is in your own hands and should be your top priority. Stay Safe and Vigilant!!!
