Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olarenwaju Ishola, has issued a warning ahead of the nationwide protest planned for October 1st by various civil society groups.
The protest is in response to the ongoing hardships faced by Nigerians.
Speaking at a town hall meeting on Friday, which was attended by traditional rulers and religious leaders from across the state, CP Ishola cautioned individuals or groups against disrupting or hijacking the protest. He emphasized that any attempt to cause a breakdown of law and order would not be tolerated.
Furthermore, the Lagos State Police Chief reassured residents of a robust police presence to ensure safety and maintain order throughout the planned protests.
“We are not stopping anybody from protesting, it is your legitimate right. We will protect all so that miscreants do not hijack it,” he said.
The police boss reiterated that the command would live up to its mandate of ensuring that no groups or individuals would be allowed to make violence and destroy property in the state.
“Protesters should not trample on other people’s rights or disrupt public peace. We will not condone any act of lawlessness or violence.
“Independence Day is a day of celebration, but some groups of people want to use that day for other purposes.
“We as security agencies, will do all within our best to ensure that we have a good turnout for the independence celebrations. The protesters should not disturb people who want to celebrate,” he said.
The CP added: “The police will enforce the court order restricting the nationwide protests against hunger and economic hardships to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota.
“The protesters must keep within the ambience of what the law says, no other place in Lagos is approved.”
In his address, Dapo Amao, the Director of the Department of State Service in Lagos State, emphasized that citizens possess the right to protest or voice their dissatisfaction with the government; however, such actions must be conducted in a civilized manner.
He highlighted the importance of safeguarding the protest from being taken over by individuals intent on disrupting public order and instigating chaos within the state.
“We will collaborate with other security agencies to ensure lives and property are secured.
“We will provide an enabling environment for business to thrive and make sure that things do not get out of hand,” he said.
Protesters, as he stated, ought to refrain from disrupting residents in their pursuit of lawful activities, ensuring that there is no harassment, disturbance, or destruction of public order.
He called upon citizens to allow the government the necessary time to rectify the situation.
Adedotun Keshinro, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Lagos State Command, encouraged individuals to return to their respective communities and grant the government the time it requires.
“Do not allow the protest to escalate to violence, If there must be protest, it must be peaceful,” he said.
He also promised to collaborate with other security agencies to protect lives and property.
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