As the nationwide protests against hunger and economic hardship enters its second day, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has placed all police formations nationwide on high alert as the #EndBadGovernance# protest continues into its second day.
In a statement to the press in Abuja, IGP Kayode Egbetokun cited the recent violence in Kano, Borno, Yobe, Nasarawa, and Niger states as reasons for the heightened alert. He emphasized the need for police to proactively protect both genuine protesters and public infrastructure.
Egbetokun stressed the importance of professionalism among officers during these protests, noting the challenges posed by citizens expressing discontent.
He recalled that, following indications of nationwide protests starting August 1, 2024, the police issued warnings based on intelligence suggesting some groups were mobilizing for violent actions, potentially aiming to disrupt national order.
Despite these warnings, some groups continued to plan protests with violent intentions and refused to cooperate with police measures intended to ensure peace. Consequently, the police advised that if protests were to proceed, they should be confined to specific areas to allow for adequate protection and to separate legitimate protesters from those with the intent for violence.
The IGP reaffirmed the police’s commitment to upholding citizens’ constitutional rights to assemble and express their views, while remaining vigilant about potential threats from individuals seeking to exploit the situation. He noted that hoodlums have targeted innocent Nigerians, causing damage and looting businesses.
In Abuja, where protesters ignored a court order to confine their activities to the National Stadium and instead took to the streets, the police maintained security without infringing on their rights, despite the breach of court directives.
The police also reported a potential threat in Lagos, where an explosive device was safely neutralized by the EOD team on Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja.
The IGP advised citizens to heed security warnings and comply with laws, while warning against using constitutional rights as a pretext to destabilize the country. He assured that the police are prepared to manage the situation with potential support from other security agencies, including the military, if necessary.
IGP Egbetokun urged all citizens to stay calm and cooperate with the police and security agencies during this challenging period.