IGP warns against foreign involvement in proposed nationwide protest

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians regarding the involvement of foreign mercenaries in the proposed nationwide protest.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Friday, Egbetokun urged citizens to exercise caution and reconsider joining any protest groups.

Egbetokun highlighted the intelligence reports at the Force’s disposal, revealing the participation of foreign elements in the planned demonstrations. “We have been monitoring developments surrounding protest threats. While some groups call for violent protests, emulating Kenya’s recent events, others advocate for peaceful demonstrations. However, some individuals promote peaceful protests with violent undertones, raising concerns about their sincerity,” he said.

The IGP acknowledged the constitutional right of Nigerians to peaceful assembly but stressed the importance of maintaining public safety and order. He called on all groups intending to protest to submit their details to the Commissioners of Police in their respective states to ensure the demonstrations remain peaceful.

“We urge all groups planning to protest to provide necessary details to the Commissioner of Police in the state where the protest is intended to take place,” Egbetokun said. “This includes proposed routes, assembly points, expected duration, names and contact details of protest leaders and organisers, measures to prevent hijacking by criminal elements, and clear communication channels with protest leaders.”

Egbetokun referenced the violent aftermath of the #ENDSARS protests as a cautionary example. “After the ENDSARS protest, police stations were burnt down, public infrastructures were destroyed to the tune of trillions of naira, private businesses were looted, and several jobs were lost in thousands. We have enough experience to learn from.”

The IGP assured that the police have implemented measures to prevent a recurrence of such violence and urged protesters to cooperate with law enforcement. “We have put measures in place to ensure that there is no breakdown of law and order. My appeal to Nigerians is to remain law-abiding. Those who insist on protesting, please cooperate with the police. The police will be there with you and protect you,” he stated.

Emphasizing the current fragile state of the nation, Egbetokun concluded, “This is not the best time to stage protests. It will only set us back. We don’t want to destroy our fragile economy. People who are struggling to make ends meet will be further disturbed. We must think of how to build our country, not destroy it.”

The police continue to monitor the situation closely, urging all Nigerians to prioritize the nation’s stability and security.