The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Mohammed Abubakar, has ordered immediate provision of adequate security in and around university campuses nationwide.
This is contained in a statement issued by CSP Frank Mba, the Force Public Relations Officer, on Thursday in Abuja.
The statement said the measure was designed to secure life and property in the institutions and provide enabling environment for lecturers, students and other members of staff to go about their lawful businesses without hindrance.
“The directive is a proactive and confidence-boosting measure designed to ensure that nothing untoward happens in our academic communities,” it said.
The statement directed all Command Commissioners of Police to personally oversee the intensification of surveillance in universities in their states.
It ordered them to “take all necessary security measures needed to provide for the safety and security of members of staff and students as well as property within the various Campuses”.
It urged lecturers, students and Nigerians within the institutions to remain law-abiding and go about their legitimate businesses without fear of molestation or intimidation from any quarters.
It will be recalled that the Federal Government on Thursday gave universities lecturers, who had been on strike since July, one week ultimatum to resume academic activities.
Meanwhile, the I-G has urged officers and men of the force, who would be involved in the supplementary election in Anambra supplementary election on Saturday to remain steadfast.
He said they should be focused and neutral, as well as exhibit the highest level of professionalism.
He reassured the people of adequate security in the state during the election, promising that the force would continue to maintain optimal presence in Anambra till the end of the election.
The police boss called on the people to cooperate with the police and other security agencies in ensuring an atmosphere of peace and order throughout the election.
Abubakar also urged politicians, traditional rulers, and opinion leaders in the state to play by the rules and help in educating their followers on the need to allow INEC and other government agencies to conclude the election.