Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Friday, stated that intelligence indicated that foreign mercenaries are involved in the proposed nationwide protest.

Addressing newsmen in Abuja, Egbetokun urged all Nigerians to exercise caution before joining any protest group. Egbetokun said: “We have been monitoring development surrounding protest threats. While some groups call for violent protests, emulating Kenya’s recent events, others advocate for peaceful demonstrations.

“However, some individuals promote peaceful protests with violent undertones, raising concerns about their sincerity. We have our history of violent protests in Nigeria, and I don’t believe we have to look to other countries to note the dangers of unchecked demonstrations. We commend patriots who have withdrawn from the protest due to the apparent sinister motives and ignorance of those calling for violence.

“We note those who have spoken out against any form of protest at this critical juncture, fearing enemies of our country may be manipulating the process. We confirm their fears are genuine, as we have credible intelligence on foreign mercenaries’ involvement in this planned protest. The Nigerian Police urge all Nigerians to exercise caution and think twice before joining any protest group.

“We acknowledge the constitutional right of Nigerian citizens to peaceful assembly and protest. However, in the interest of public safety and order, we urge all groups planning to protest to provide necessary details to the Commissioner of Police in the state where the protest is intended to take place. To facilitate a successful and incident-free protest, they should please provide the following information.

“The proposed protest routes and assembly points, expected duration of the protest, names and contact details of protest leaders and organisers.” He urged the protesters to cooperate with policemen, adding that the police would be available to protect them.