The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ahead of the planned nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest, has directed commanders of tactical squads to ensure the prevention of violence and anarchy across the country.
This directive was issued amidst the determination of protest organizers to proceed, despite numerous appeals from the government, individuals, and groups.
Addressing commanders from the Police Mobile Force’s Counter Terrorism Unit and Special Protection Unit in Abuja on Saturday, Egbetokun emphasized that while citizens have the right to peaceful protest, this right must not infringe on the rights of others.
He stressed the importance of maintaining professionalism and exercising restraint, even in the face of provocation.
In preparation for the demonstrations, the IGP had earlier requested that protest organizers submit their details to the police.
During a briefing in Abuja on Friday, he specifically asked all groups intending to participate to provide necessary details to the commissioners of police in their respective states.
Egbetokun stated, “We acknowledge the constitutional right of Nigerian citizens to peaceful assembly and protest.
“However, in the interest of public safety and order, we urge all groups planning to protest to provide necessary details to the Commissioner of Police in the state where the protest is intended to take place.”
The details requested from organizers include proposed protest routes and assembly points, the expected duration of the protest, and the names and contact information of protest leaders and organizers.
The police also sought information on measures to prevent hijacking by criminal elements and key identifiers for potential troublemakers.
Expressing concern over the possibility of the protest being hijacked, the IGP highlighted the need for this information to help identify potential troublemakers.
He reiterated the police’s commitment to deploying adequate personnel and resources to ensure public safety, emphasizing the need to avoid conflicts with other events or activities.
Additional guidelines released by the IGP for protesters include establishing clear communication channels with protest leaders, minimizing the risk of violence, property damage, or other criminal activity, and encouraging cooperation with the police.
“We encourage all protesters to cooperate with the police, obey the law, and adhere to global best practices for peaceful assembly to guarantee a safe and successful exercise of their rights,” Egbetokun concluded.
The planned protest, set to commence on August 1, aims to address issues of bad governance, hardship, and hunger in Nigeria.
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