IG Urges Citizens to Abandon Proposed Nationwide Protest

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has urged citizens to reconsider plans for a nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, citing concerns over potential violence and disruption. The call comes amid social media campaigns mobilizing for protests in response to economic challenges facing the country.

During a meeting with police commissioners in Abuja, Egbetokun highlighted the destructive consequences of past protests, including the #EndSARS demonstrations, which he claimed exacerbated crime rates and insecurity in several regions.

“Some groups of people, self-appointed crusaders and influencers, have been strategizing and mobilizing potential protesters to unleash terror in the land under the guise of replicating the recent Kenya protests,” Egbetokun stated.

While acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful protest, Egbetokun emphasized the importance of preventing demonstrations from escalating into violence. “As a nation, we have had more than our fair share of violent protests, with rather dastardly consequences,” he said. “The last #EndSARS protest led to one-tenth destruction of public assets, including police stations, courts, and transport infrastructure, and the loss of several lives.”

Egbetokun noted the lasting impact of previous protests, including significant economic losses and widespread psychological and emotional trauma. He cautioned that the proposed protests are “ill-advised” and could potentially lead to further unrest.

He assured that the police force is prepared to protect lives and property, ensuring that protests remain peaceful. “We have mapped out plans to ensure that no individual or group succeeds in fostering a reign of terror and anarchy on other law-abiding and deserving Nigerians,” he said.

The IG warned potential troublemakers that measures are in place to prevent and address any violence. “We will therefore not sit back and fold our arms to watch violent activities unleash violence on our peaceful communities or destroy any of our national critical infrastructure and assets again,” Egbetokun concluded.