Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), has expressed great concern regarding the impending nationwide protests announced by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).
Recognizing the constitutional right to peaceful protests, Egbetokun on Tuesday appealed to participants to ensure the demonstrations remain peaceful so as not to be hijacked by miscreants.
The IGP who acknowledged the labour unions’ grievances, emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue in resolving the issues with the Federal Government (FG).
To this end, he directed the Commissioners of Police across various commands and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police to engage with the NLC and TUC leadership to find a common ground regarding the protests.
He further reiterated via a statement through the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to ensuring the safety and security of citizens during the protests.
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The NPF affirmed that it would not tolerate any act of vandalism, gangsterism, or extortion that threatens public peace and order.
“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 Police boss urges all stakeholders, including the NLC, TUC, and other civil society groups, to embrace peaceful dialogue as the most effective means of resolving grievances, while also reemphasizing that the Police is committed to ensuring a secure and conducive environment for open dialogue, constructive engagement and mutual understanding for a seamless exercise of civil rights,” the statement added.
