INTERESTING! Inspector General Breaks Silence: See What He Said Police Will Do To Anyone Who Participated Upcoming Protest
In light of the planned protest scheduled for August 1, the Inspector- General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has assured Nigerians that the police will manage the situation in a professional and lawful manner. This commitment was reiterated during a meeting held on Tuesday in Abuja with senior police officers, including commissioners of police and other high- ranking officials. The meeting was convened to discuss and analyze intelligence reports from various police commands across the country to ensure adequate security measures are in place.
IG Egbetokun emphasized the police force’ s preparedness for the upcoming protest, underscoring the importance of maintaining peace and order. ” So we are prepared, and I want to assure you that we will manage the protest in the most professional manner, ” he stated. This assurance comes as a response to growing concerns about the potential for unrest and violence during the demonstrations.
The Inspector- General reiterated the police’ s commitment to safeguarding the rights of Nigerians to engage in peaceful protests. He made it clear that the police would protect protesters who conduct themselves peacefully, highlighting the distinction between lawful assemblies and those that turn violent. ” If the protest is peaceful, you will see us protecting the protesters as long as they remain peaceful. But we have a duty to protect lives and property, so we will not sit back and watch hoodlums burn down facilities in the name of protest, ” Egbetokun affirmed.
He stressed that the primary concern of the police is to prevent violence and criminal activities that might arise under the guise of protests. ” We are not against peaceful protest; we will support peaceful protest by protecting those who will engage in peaceful protest, ” he reiterated. The IG’ s statements underscore the importance of peaceful demonstrations as a fundamental right in a democratic society, while also drawing a firm line against any form of violent conduct.
Egbetokun also addressed the strategic police managers on the significance of their role in maintaining law and order during the protest. He noted that peaceful protests do not pose a challenge to law enforcement, but the situation becomes problematic if the protests turn violent. ” The task of maintaining law and order during the protest would not be a challenge if the protesters engaged in peaceful protest. It becomes a challenge if the protest is violent, ” he explained.
The IG’ s remarks come at a crucial time when the country is experiencing heightened tensions and economic challenges, which have led to increased public demonstrations. By reaffirming the police force’ s commitment to professionalism and adherence to the rule of law, Egbetokun aims to build public confidence in the police’ s ability to manage protests effectively.
Furthermore, the Inspector- General called on Nigerian youths to reject any calls for violent protests. ” I have always said that the right to protest is the right to peaceful protest. No civilized society will tolerate violent protest. Violent protest is criminal, but peaceful protest is a right, ” he emphasized. This appeal to the youth is critical, as they represent a significant portion of the protesting population and have the potential to influence the nature of the demonstrations.
In conclusion, IG Olukayode Egbetokun’ s address highlights the Nigerian Police’ s readiness and commitment to managing the August 1 protest with the utmost professionalism. By ensuring the protection of peaceful protesters and taking a firm stance against violence, the police aim to uphold public order and safety while respecting citizens’ democratic rights.
