IGP urges Zonal AIGs, CPs to ensure peaceful protests

Ahead of the nationwide planned protest, the Inspector General of Police, (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun on Wednesday addressed a virtual conference with Senior Police Officers from across the country, focusing on critical issues of preparedness, deployment, and the maintenance of law and order during the planned nationwide protest in the country.

In his address, the IGP emphasized the importance of maintaining a high level of alertness and professionalism within the force, noting that the safety and security of the nation depended on the vigilance, gallantry, and readiness of our officers in the Police and other security agencies.

The IGP highlighted the need for continuous preparedness and strategic deployment of police officers to respond to any situation while maximally equipped, and ready to handle any scenario that may arise.

Emphasizing the critical role of the police in maintaining law and order, the IGP reminded senior officers of their duty to uphold the rule of law, and police with the highest level of integrity.

The IGP further emphasized that while peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right, the police must be vigilant to prevent any group from hijacking such events to incite violence.

He directed that “proactive measures must be emplaced to ensure that peaceful protests do not turn into violent confrontations, as Nigeria cannot afford to record any violence in this period”.

Furthermore, with much emphasis, the IGP “issued a stern warning against the spread of fake news via various media platforms charging officers to put in necessary emplacements to manage this”, and “advising members of the public to shun the spread of unverified contents on social media”.

The IGP also warned against “unplanned protests and unnecessary street processions, which can disrupt public order and safety” reiterating that “confined protests are best in this situation to prevent destruction of public infrastructures and other properties.

The IGP called on “all senior officers to remain steadfast in their commitment to service, emphasizing that their leadership is crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.”