CurrentReport Blog In preparation for the upcoming protests planned for August 1–10, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive for organizers to submit their details to the commissioners of police in their respective states. Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Friday, IGP Egbetokun emphasized the importance of this measure to ensure the protests remain peaceful.
This announcement follows a request from human rights activist Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, who had earlier informed the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) of the protests, seeking protection for the group known as Take It Back Movement.
IGP Egbetokun reiterated the right of Nigerian citizens to peaceful assembly and protest but highlighted the necessity for coordination with law enforcement for public safety. “We acknowledge the constitutional right of Nigerian citizens to peaceful assembly and protest,” he stated. “However, in the interest of public safety and order, we urge all groups planning to protest to provide necessary details to the Commissioner of Police in the state where the protest is intended to take place.”
He outlined the specific information required from protest organizers:
- Proposed protest routes and assembly points
- Expected duration of the protest
- Names and contact details of protest leaders and organizers
This directive aims to facilitate a successful and incident-free protest.
Meanwhile, the DSS has expressed concerns over potential disruptions. On Thursday, DSS spokesman Peter Afunanya claimed that some plotters are planning to hijack the protests for violent outcomes, intending to undermine the federal and sub-national governments. “The plotters desire to use the intended violent outcome to smear the federal and sub-national governments, make them unpopular and pit them against the masses,” Afunanya warned.
As the protest dates approach, both law enforcement and protest organizers are urged to collaborate closely to ensure the demonstrations proceed peacefully and safely.
