The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba, emphasized that the scheduled inauguration of Bola Tinubu as President of Nigeria on May 29 cannot be changed.
In a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the IGP stated that the date for the swearing-in ceremony, along with other inauguration ceremonies at both national and state levels, is of utmost importance and must be respected.
The IGP pledged to take all necessary measures, in collaboration with other security operatives, to protect democracy.
He issued a stern warning to political figures who are attempting to cause trouble or obstruct the inauguration of newly elected leaders, urging them to abandon such plans.
The IGP emphasized that true democrats should prioritize national security and democratic interests over personal political ambitions.
He criticized certain political actors for making public statements and inciting protests that aim to create tension ahead of the Presidential Swearing-in ceremony.
Such actions, according to the IGP, not only contradict democratic values but are also subversive, undemocratic, and unconstitutional.
The Nigeria Police issued three key messages in response to these developments. Firstly, all political actors with subversive intentions, as well as their collaborators and followers who may be susceptible to radicalization, were warned to immediately cease their deliberate attempts to disrupt the 29th May 2023 Presidential Inauguration Ceremony.
Secondly, regardless of their political affiliations, individuals engaging in activities that undermine the nation’s democratic and security interests should be fully aware that the Nigeria Police, working closely with other law enforcement agencies and the intelligence community, is determined to protect democracy, maintain internal security, and ensure a successful inauguration ceremony.
Thirdly, the IGP stressed that the Inauguration Ceremonies, both at the national and state levels, are crucial constitutional requirements for the preservation of the country’s political order, and it is the duty and legal obligation of the Nigeria Police to defend these democratic values and closely monitor the constitutional processes.
Consequently, the IGP assured citizens that the Nigeria Police’s loyalty to democracy and the political order remains unwavering, and they are committed to defending democracy at any cost.