The Inspector General of Police, Mr Olukayode Egbetokun has issued directives for the Aug. 1 planned nationwide protest by some concerned citizens.
This was revealed by the I-G of Police on Friday in Abuja.
According to him, protesters must be organized, providing details of their proposed route, assembling point; duration of the protest; names and contacts of protest leaders.
He stated that the Commissioner of Police in charge of any state where the protest would convene must also issue guidelines on the protest, including preventing measures incase of hijack by criminal characters.
“By providing these information, the police will be enabled to deploy adequate personnel and resources to ensure public safety.
“It will also help the police to designate its personnel specific routes and areas for the protest, to avoid conflict with other event or activities.
“With the information, the Police can establish clear communication channels with the protest leaders to address any concerns or issues that may arise.
“It will also help to minimise the risk of violence, property damage or other criminal activities,” he said.
Egbetokun while acknowledging the constitutional rights to protest, urged protest groups to ensure cooperation with the Police, by obeying the law and adhering to best practices for peaceful assembly.
Furthermore, he emphasized that the Police are monitoring the situation surrounding the planned protest, dismissing calls for the Kenyan model of violent demonstrations.
“We have our own history of violent protests in Nigeria and I don’t believe we have to look to other countries to know the dangers of unchecked demonstrations.
“We commend patriots who have withdrawn from the protest and note those who had spoken out against any form of protest at this critical time.
“The fear that enemies of the country may manipulate the process were genuine concerns shared.
“We have credible intelligence on foreign machineries’ involvement in the planned protest,” he said.
The police chief then cautioned against destruction of property and lives under the guise of protest, insisting that such actions would be severely punished.
saharandaily