The Kwara State Police Commissioner, Victor Olaiya, has extended an invitation to the organisers of the upcoming nationwide hunger protests, scheduled to take place from August 1–10, 2024, in the state
News About Nigeria reports that this invitation aims to facilitate a meeting between the protest leaders and the Commissioner to discuss security arrangements and ensure a peaceful protest.
In a statement released by the police command’s spokesperson, DSP Ejire Adeyemi Toun, in Ilorin, the police emphasised the need for protesters to adhere to the recent court ruling, which designates the Metropolitan Square along Asa-Dam Road as the approved location for protests.
The statement warned against holding protests outside this designated area, specifically mentioning that the Post Office is not an authorised location for such gatherings.
The police command’s statement also highlighted the importance of complying with the court ruling, citing the violent turn of events in other states such as Niger, Borno, Kano, and Yobe, where protests were hijacked, resulting in the loss of lives and properties.
The statement read, “The Kwara State Police Command wishes to inform the public about the ongoing protest.
“It is evident that the protests in states like Niger, Borno, Kano, and Yobe have been hijacked, resulting in the loss of lives and properties. Citizens wishing to exercise their franchise must comply with the recent court ruling in the state.
“We urge all groups to follow the court ruling, which stipulates that protests must take place at the Metropolitan Square along Asa-Dam Road. The Post Office is not an approved location for such gatherings.
“We also request that protest leaders meet with the Commissioner of Police to strategise on security measures and ensure the safety of all participants.”
