NLC protest: Police pledge to protect rallies
Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has urged all participants during the proposed nationwide protests by the Nigeria Labour Congress NLC, to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly by adhering to the principles of non-violence and respect for the rights of others.
He also calls on the organizers to cooperate with the Police and other relevant security agencies in ensuring that their protests remain peaceful and orderly even as the NPF works to ensure that protests are conducted in a safe environment, conducive to the promotion of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Speaking through the Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Police Chief said the Force affirms the fundamental right of all citizens of the country to engage in peaceful protest in line with extant laws.
As such, the NPF reiterates its commitment to ensuring the rights and freedom of protesters are protected.
The IGP stressed that, in line with its lawful duty to maintain law and order, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed personnel nationwide and placed them on red alert to monitor the planned protest.
All Commissioners of Police and their respective supervising officers have been briefed and instructed to coordinate the officers on the ground in ensuring the safety and security of all participants if the protests hold as planned.
While recognizing the importance of peaceful protests, the Police Chief reassured that the Nigeria Police Force remains vigilant against any attempts to hijack such protests by individuals or groups of persons with sinister intents. Emphatically, the force, therefore, is fully prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any unlawful activities or acts of violence that may threaten peace, public safety, and security in the event of such.
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Adejobi added that the Police has spread its tentacles nationwide to curb any attempt by some individuals who might want to leverage on the nationwide protests to create chaos.
He warned that, such will be met with an approved legal and proportional force as the Police will not allow wanton break down of law and order, loss of lives and property like experienced in some instances, in the past, across the country.
