The Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has urged organisers of the upcoming nationwide protest to provide essential details to their respective state commissioners to ensure a smooth and safe demonstration.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Egbetokun emphasised the need for cooperation between the police and protesters to prevent any potential disruptions or violence.
News About Nigeria reports that the planned protest, which is scheduled to begin on August 1, is a response to the country’s economic challenges and is being led by young people.
“To facilitate a peaceful demonstration, Egbetokun requested that organisers provide information on the protest route, assembly point, duration, and leadership,” he said.
He also asked for measures to prevent criminal elements from hijacking the protest and causing trouble.
Egbetokun emphasised the importance of designating specific routes and areas for the protest to avoid conflicts with other events.
He also encouraged clear communication channels between protest leaders and the police to address any concerns or issues that may arise.
The police IG assured that the force is committed to working with all Nigerians to promote peaceful expression and maintain public order.
However, Egbetokun earlier expressed concerns about the timing of the protest, citing “credible intelligence” that foreign mercenaries may be involved.
He cautioned that a peaceful protest may be “ill-timed” given the current situation in the country.
Despite this, he urged 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.
