Daud Olatunji
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern warning to the Take It Back Movement, an advocacy group planning the #EndBadGovernance protest, slated for August 1 to August 10.
The group has come under scrutiny for not providing required details about the protest organisers, a condition mandated by Nigerian law enforcement authorities.
In a statement released late Wednesday, Egbetokun expressed concern over the movement’s refusal to comply with the Nigerian Police Force’s requirements, which include submitting the names of the organisers, the planned route, and the schedule for the protests.
The Police IG emphasised that this information is crucial for maintaining public order and ensuring the safety of all citizens during the demonstration.
“Regrettably, the organisers of the proposed protest have not deemed it necessary to supply the simple and basic information required by the Police, under the Constitution, the Police Act, and all other enabling laws,” Egbetokun stated.
He added that intelligence reports suggest that the protests might be exploited by some to cause widespread chaos, including attacks on innocent citizens and damage to public and private properties.
The police chief warned that any acts of violence, harassment, or destruction during the protests would be met with decisive action.
“All police formations across the country are hereby put on alert and directed to protect innocent lives and properties from attack, harassment, molestation, or destruction,” Egbetokun asserted.
He also directed officers to “decisively deal” with any acts of arson, intimidation, or breaches of public peace, assuring that perpetrators of such crimes would be arrested and prosecuted promptly.
The statement also called on the Take It Back Movement to adhere to lawful procedures and provide the necessary information to the police.
This would include engaging with State Commissioners of Police and outlining the specifics of the protest, such as venues, routes, and security measures to prevent any untoward incidents.
The police highlighted the importance of this cooperation to ensure the safety of both the protesters and the general public, emphasising that the right to protest in a democracy comes with the responsibility of ensuring that such actions do not infringe on the rights of others.
The movement, however, has reportedly rejected these proposals, further escalating tensions with law enforcement.
The Take It Back Movement’s refusal to comply with the police’s conditions has raised concerns about the potential for unrest and the safety of citizens during the protest period.
The police’s heightened state of readiness comes amid a broader context of civil unrest and protests in Nigeria, particularly around issues of governance and security.
The #EndBadGovernance protest is part of a larger movement demanding accountability and transparency from Nigerian leaders.
However, the government’s response has often been marked by strict law enforcement measures, reflecting a delicate balance between maintaining public order and respecting citizens’ rights to protest.
… Ogun Custodial Centres On High Alert Ahead Of Planned Protest
Meanwhile ,The Ogun State command of the Custodial Centres has significantly bolstered security across its facilities. This heightened alert comes in response to an anticipated protest by aggrieved youths, which has raised concerns about possible threats to the centres.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the decision to enhance security was driven by the need to preempt any violent actions or disruptions that could arise during the protest.
The Public Relations Officer for the Ogun State Custodial Centres, Owolola Odukoya, confirmed that the security arrangements have been in place around all six correctional facilities in the state well ahead of the planned demonstration.
Odukoya emphasized the commitment of the command to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and security of the centres.
He assured that all necessary precautions are being taken to mitigate any risks associated with the protest.
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