In anticipation of the planned peaceful protests, human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong announced on Friday via his X account that a legal team is being formed in Lagos State to provide representation for protesters who may be arrested or charged during the demonstrations.
The protests, led by the Take It Back Movement (TIB), are planned to start on August 1 and continue through August 10.
In his tweet, Effiong urged his colleagues who are willing to render pro bono services to reach out to him.
His tweet read, “We are putting together a legal team in Lagos State to offer representation to any protester who may be arrested and or charged to court during the forthcoming peaceful protest.
“My learned colleagues practising in Lagos, please share your WhatsApp numbers with me via DM if you would love to offer pro bono services to protesters. Thank you. History will vindicate the just.”
Meanwhile, News About Nigeria reported that the Nigerian Police Force has pledged to ensure public safety and prevent any form of violence during the upcoming nationwide protest.
The announcement comes amid rising anticipation for the demonstration, which is to express grievances over hunger and hardship in the country.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, stated on Friday that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command has mobilised 4,200 officers to maintain peace and order.
This deployment includes visibility policing, explosive ordinance device (EOD) experts, and personnel stationed at strategic locations.
The force will also conduct raids on identified black spots, uncompleted buildings, and shanties, alongside implementing stop-and-search operations, vehicular and foot patrols, and coordinating efforts with other security agencies.
The Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Benneth Igweh, maintained that residents have the right to protest but urged that demonstrations remain peaceful.
He warned against any acts of violence or lawlessness, noting that the police would not tolerate the destruction of property or loss of life.
Residents were encouraged to report suspicious activities through the provided emergency lines.
