NLC protest: IGP Egbetokun urges protesters to behave peacefully, warns against hijackers

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has urged protesters to behave peacefully during the proposed Tuesday and Wednesday national protest by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

He urged them to uphold the principles of non-violence, and respect the rights of others during the proposed protest, while urging the NLC to cooperate with the police, and othe sister security agencies for the peaceful conduct of the exercise.

The IGP further warned hijackers against taking over the planned protest by perpetrating acts of violence that may threaten peace, and public safety, stating that they would be dealt with decisively. 

As contained in a statement by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the spokesperson of the police force on Monday, the force assured of its commitment to protect the rights and frwedom of the protesters.

Adejobi stated that all state commissioners of police have been ordered to coordinate their officers on ground to ensure the safety and security of the protesters if the protest holds as planned.

The statement partly reads: "In line with its lawful duty to maintain law and order, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed personnel nationwide and placed them on red alert to monitor the planned protest. 

"While recognizing the importance of peaceful protest, the Nigeria Police Force remains vigilant against any attempts to hijack such protests by individuals or groups of persons with sinister intents. 

"Emphatically, the force, therefore, is fully prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any unlawful activities or acts of violence that may threaten peace, public safety, and security in the event of such. 

"It is vital to state that the Police has spread its tentacles nationwide to curb any attempt by some individuals who might want to leverage on the nationwide protests, to create brouhaha, and such will be met with an approved legal and proportional force as the Police will not allow wanton break down of law and order, loss of lives and property like we had experienced, in some instances, in the past, in any part of the country."