Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed commanders of tactical units to prevent violence and disorder ahead of the planned nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest. This directive comes despite persistent calls from the government, various individuals, and groups for the protest to be reconsidered.
During a meeting in Abuja on Saturday with commanders from the Police Mobile Force’s Counter Terrorism Unit and Special Protection Unit, Egbetokun underscored that while citizens have the right to protest peacefully, this must not infringe on others’ rights. He stressed the importance of professionalism and restraint, even under provocation.
In advance of the demonstrations, the IGP had previously asked protest organizers to submit their details to the police. In a briefing on Friday, he specifically requested that all participating groups provide relevant information to the commissioners of police in their respective states. Egbetokun noted, “We recognize the constitutional right of Nigerians to peaceful assembly and protest. However, for public safety and order, we urge all groups planning to protest to provide the necessary details to the Commissioner of Police in the state where the protest is to occur.”
The information requested includes proposed protest routes, assembly points, expected duration, and contact details of protest leaders. Additionally, the police sought details on measures to prevent the protest from being hijacked by criminal elements and to identify potential troublemakers.
Egbetokun expressed concern about the possibility of the protest being disrupted and emphasized the need for the provided information to help identify and mitigate potential issues. He reaffirmed the police’s commitment to deploying sufficient personnel and resources to ensure public safety while avoiding conflicts with other activities.
Further guidelines from the IGP for protesters include maintaining clear communication with protest leaders, reducing the risk of violence and property damage, and cooperating with law enforcement. Egbetokun concluded, “We encourage all protesters to cooperate with the police, comply with the law, and follow best practices for peaceful assembly to ensure a safe and effective exercise of their rights.”
The protest, scheduled to begin on August 1, seeks to address issues related to bad governance, hardship, and hunger in Nigeria.
