The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, says the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has discovered that foreign mercenaries are involved in the planned protest scheduled for August 1 to 10, 2024.
Some sections of Nigerians had announced the nationwide protest tagged, #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, over economic hardship in the country.
Speaking on the planned nationwide demonstration in Abuja on Friday, July 26, the IGP said the police had been monitoring the threats surrounding the planned protest, adding that some groups were calling for violent protests to emulate the recent protest in Kenya.
Egbetokun stated that others were calling for peaceful protest, with violence undertone resulting in concern about their sincerity.
He said: “We have our own history of violent protests in Nigeria and I don’t believe we have to look to other countries to know the dangers of unchecked demonstrations.
“We commend patriots who have withdrawn from the protest and note those who had spoken out against any form of protest at this critical time.
“The fear that enemies of the country may manipulate the process were genuine concerns shared.
“We have credible intelligence on foreign mercenaries’ involvement in the planned protest.”
Egbetokun, however, said protesters must provide details of their proposed route, assembling point, duration of the protest, names, and contacts of protest leaders and organisers.
The IGP said the Commissioner of Police in charge of the state the protest was intended must also be provided with measures taken to prevent the hijack of the protest by criminal elements.
CAN to Nigerians: Consider alternative means, protest may be hijacked
The IGP added: “By providing this information, the police will be enabled to deploy adequate personnel and resources to ensure public safety.
“It will also help the police to designate its personnel specific routes and areas for the protest, to avoid conflict with other events or activities.
“With the information, the Police can establish clear communication channels with the protest leaders to address any concerns or issues that may arise.
“It will also help to minimise the risk of violence, property damage or other criminal activities.”
According to him, the police acknowledge the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly or protests, but it is incumbent on the protesting groups to provide the details in the interest of public safety and order.
Egbetokun also called on the groups in the planned protest to cooperate with the police by obeying the law and adhering to global best practices for peaceful assembly.
He noted that the police would not tolerate the killing of innocent citizens, destruction of public infrastructure and private property, as well as looting of private businesses.
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