The Ekiti State police command has banned any unlawful gathering in the state.
This followed reports of a plan by a cult group to celebrate its anniversary on July 7.
The state’s Commissioner of Police, Mr. Akinwale Adeniran, ordered the ban in a statement issued on Saturday in Ado-Ekiti.
The statement read: “It has come to the notice of the command that a group of criminally minded individuals particularly cult members of a particular confraternity have concluded plans to celebrate on July 7, a day which is popularly called 7/7.
“Information at our disposal is that on that day of celebration, new members will be inducted, and there will be a renewal of covenant as well as supremacy battle which is usually characterised by violence and bloodshed.
“The command, therefore, warns members of secret cults and other criminal elements in the state to shun such illegal and unhealthy celebration or any such plan or action that could cause unnecessary apprehension or alter the peaceful atmosphere currently being enjoyed in the state.”
The CP also directed all Area Commanders, Heads of Intelligence and Tactical Units, and the DPOs to be alert, and deploy adequate operatives across their jurisdictions, especially all the identified black spots.
Adeniran also ordered the arrest and prosecution of anyone who undermines the peace and security in the state.
He stressed that the police would not allow the peace and security in the state to be compromised or traded for any frivolous personal gain.
He said the command had banned any form of gathering or celebration in all hotels, bars, event/recreation centres, and the like across the state on July 7.
“Parents and guardians are advised to warn their wards to be law-abiding and desist from acts that could cause a breach of peace, or unlawful gathering or assembly before, during, and after the said date,” the CP added.