- Lagos State Commissioner of Police Olarenwaju Ishola warned against hijacking the planned October 1 protest, emphasizing the need for peaceful demonstrations
- The police assured residents of safety during the protest, stating it is a legitimate right but must not disrupt public peace
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olarenwaju Ishola, has strongly warned individuals or groups intending to hijack the planned October 1 nationwide protest over current economic hardship. Various civil society groups are organizing the protest.
During a town hall meeting with traditional rulers and religious leaders on Friday, CP Ishola emphasized that while peaceful protests are a legitimate right, the police would not tolerate any attempt to cause a breakdown of law and order.
“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 chief assured Lagos residents that the command would be highly alert to ensure safety and order. He stressed that protesters must not infringe on the rights of others or disrupt public peace, warning that any act of lawlessness or violence would not be condoned.
“Independence Day is a day for celebration, but some groups want to use that day for another purpose. We, as security agencies, will do all we can to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration. Protesters should not disturb those who wish to celebrate,” CP Ishola added.
As per a court order, the protest in Lagos has been restricted to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota. CP Ishola emphasized that no other locations are approved for the demonstration. “The protesters must keep within the limits of what the law says,” he reiterated.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Dapo Amao, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos, acknowledged the citizens’ right to protest but urged them to do so peacefully, ensuring that hoodlums do not hijack protests.
“We will collaborate with other security agencies to ensure that lives and property are secured and things do not get out of hand,” Amao said, urging citizens to allow the government time to address the nation’s challenges.
In addition, Mr. Adedotun Keshinro, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), called for peaceful protests and encouraged residents to return to their communities, giving the government time to rectify the situation.
Keshinro assured that the NSCDC and other security agencies would work together to protect lives and property during the protest.
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