Why IGP demanded protest plans from organisers — Force PRO

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has responded to recent accusations made by activist Deji Adeyanju and others, alleging that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) is attempting to rewrite the Constitution by requesting details of planned protest from organisers and leaders.

NPF’s spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, addressed the issue in a statement on Sunday, stating, “It is vital to clarify that the IGP has never denied the constitutional right of every citizen to freedom of association and expression, but has rather, at every point, emphasised that the right is that to peaceful assembly and expression.”
Adejobi also asserted the NPF’s responsibility to ensure that any activity, including protests, does not pose a threat to national security.

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“In this way, requesting the details of protest organisers and their leaders and the schedules of their protests, which include location, period, routes, etc., is a standard procedure to facilitate effective communication, ensure the safety of all participants, and prevent any unlawful activities,” Adejobi said.

“It is also vital for Deji Adeyanju to note that in the interest of defense, public safety, public order, public morality, or public health; or for the purpose of protecting the rights and freedom of other persons as enshrined in Section 45 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, this request by the IGP is not out of place.”

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He explained that it is important to know who is planning the assembly (protests) in each state, as allowing faceless groups to operate unchecked could jeopardise the country’s peace and stability, leaving the nation with pain, sorrow, and tears, as happened during the 2020 violent EndSARS Protests.

Adejobi added that if organised labour and other recognised bodies were involved, it would have provided a more structured and safer environment for such public protests.

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The policeman, however, urges the planned protest organisers to work together to uphold national security and well-being.

He added, “While the police urge Mr. Adeyanju and other organisers not to mislead Nigerians, we therefore call on them to join hands in working together to uphold the security and well-being of our nation.”