The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has disclosed that credible intelligence reports suggest the involvement of foreign mercenaries in planning the anticipated protest scheduled for August 1st.
This information, revealed during a press conference at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, has raised concerns about the potential for violence and unrest.
IGP Egbetokun warned that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) will not tolerate any actions that could lead to the harm of innocent citizens, the destruction of public infrastructure, or the looting of private businesses.
He emphasised that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, the current climate makes such demonstrations particularly vulnerable to exploitation by criminal elements and hostile foreign interests.
“We note those who have spoken out against any form of protest at this critical juncture, fearing enemies of our country may be manipulating the process,” Egbetokun stated.
“We confirm their fears are genuine, as we have credible intelligence on foreign mercenaries’ involvement in this planned protest.
“The Nigerian police urges all Nigerians to exercise caution and think twice before joining any protest group. While we alert citizens to the sinister motives of certain groups planning to wreak havoc, it has become clear that even a peaceful protest at this time may be ill-timed.”
Acknowledging the right to peaceful assembly, the IGP outlined the measures the NPF will implement to ensure public safety.
He called on all groups intending to protest to provide detailed information to the respective Commissioners of Police.
This information includes proposed protest routes, assembly points, expected duration, names and contact details of leaders and organizers, and measures to prevent criminal hijacking of the protests.
“By providing this information, the police will be enabled to deploy adequate personnel and resources to ensure public safety, designate specific routes and areas for the protest to avoid conflicts with other events or activities, and establish clear communication channels with protest leaders,” Egbetokun explained.
“This will minimize the risk of violence, property damage, or other criminal activity.”
He further urged all participants to cooperate with law enforcement and adhere to global best practices for peaceful assembly.
“We are committed to working with all Nigerians to promote peaceful expression and maintain public order,” he stated.
The police chief also highlighted the NPF’s monitoring of the situation, noting that while some groups are pushing for violent protests similar to recent events in Kenya, others advocate for peaceful demonstrations.
However, Egbetokun expressed concern over the sincerity of those promoting peaceful protests with potentially violent undertones.
“We have our own history of violent protests in Nigeria, and I don’t believe we have to look to other countries to note the dangers of unchecked demonstrations,” he said.
“We commend patriots who have withdrawn from the protest due to the apparent sinister motives and ignorance of those calling for violence.”
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