••• SAYS NO ROOM FOR VIOLENT PROTESTS IN NIGERIA
…DEPLOYS WATERTIGHT SECURITY ACROSS NIGERIA
The Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has warned the organised Labour against any form of violent protests in any part of the country as they embark on the nationwide protest on Wednesday to register their grievances against the hardship in Nigeria caused by the removal of oil subsidy.
The IGP also ordered watertight security across Nigeria, while appealing for calm and patience.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters Abuja, ACP Olumuyiwa, Adejobi, said in a statement on Tuesday, that the IGP is deeply concerned about recent developments regarding planned nationwide protests by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).
He stressed that the IGP was aware of the right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in the Constitution, and urged all parties involved to ensure that the planned demonstrations are conducted in a peaceful manner to prevent them from being hijacked by miscreants.
He said that the observation was necessary in view of ugly experiences during such protests in most major cosmopolitan cities in the country in the past.
“The IGP, however, acknowledges the grievances raised by the labour unions and the importance of constructive dialogue, which is sine qua none, in addressing these issues.
“In light of this, the IGP orders the Commissioners of Police in charge of various commands, and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, to engage in fruitful discussions with the NLC/TUC leadership to foster understanding and reach common grounds on the planned protests.
“A peaceful and coordinated approach is crucial to achieving meaningful solutions and preventing any form of violence or disruptions to public order, should the protests persist.” The statement said.
Adejobi reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens during the period of the planned protests as all necessary measures to facilitate the peaceful conduct of these demonstrations have been emplaced.
“However, it is hereby reaffirmed that any attempt by miscreants to exploit the situation for violent purposes viz-a-viz vandalism, gangsterism, and extortion will be met with firm, professional and commensurate lawful approach.
“The Police will not tolerate any act that threatens the peace and well-being of our country.
“In light of the potential challenges posed by the planned protests, the Nigeria Police Force is fully prepared to deploy all available resources to maintain law and order and to protect the lives and property of our citizens.
“The IGP therefore calls on all officers to be vigilant, professional, and uphold the highest standards of conduct during this period.” The statement continued.
The statement added the police boss urged all stakeholders, including the NLC, TUC, and other civil society groups, to embrace peaceful dialogue as the most effective means of resolving grievances.