The Acting Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, issues a warning ahead of the national protest organized by the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress.
The IGP urges protesters to avoid violence and prevent potential hijacking by miscreants, drawing from past negative experiences in major cities.
In a statement delivered by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Uyiwa Adejobi, the IGP stresses the importance of peaceful demonstrations while acknowledging the grievances raised by the labor unions.
He emphasizes the need for constructive dialogue to address the issues at hand.
The IGP instructs Police Commissioners and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police to engage in fruitful discussions with NLC/TUC leaders to foster understanding and seek common ground.
The objective is to achieve meaningful solutions and maintain public order during the planned protests.
While the Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring citizens’ safety during the demonstrations, it firmly warns miscreants against exploiting the situation for violent purposes. Any attempts at vandalism, gangsterism, or extortion will be met with a lawful and professional response.
The IGP calls on all officers to uphold the highest standards of conduct and be vigilant during this period. Furthermore, he urges all stakeholders, including NLC, TUC, and civil society groups, to embrace peaceful dialogue as the most effective means of resolving grievances.
The Police are dedicated to providing a secure environment for open dialogue, constructive engagement, and mutual understanding to facilitate the exercise of civil rights.