Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has advised individuals involved in the ongoing protests against hardship under President Bola Tinubu’s administration not to continue their actions.
The IGP made this statement during a live broadcast, reacting to reports of attacks on police officers on the first day of the 10-day protest.
He condemned what he termed a mass uprising, noting incidents of looting, destruction of property, and attempts to seize government buildings on Thursday by certain individuals. He ordered all police units to be on high alert to ensure public safety.
“Police stations have been destroyed, and there have been attempts to storm government houses.”
“In regions such as the FCT, Kaduna, Kano, and Gombe, we have recorded incidents of unprovoked attacks on our security personnel, resulting in the murder of one policeman and others seriously injured.
“In light of the current situation, the Nigeria Police Force has placed all units on red alert. Our officers are fully mobilized and prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to maintain public safety and order.
“While we acknowledge citizens’ right to protest, it is essential that such activities adhere to constitutional rules and responsibilities to the state.”
“We recognize the right of citizens to protest, but this right is not absolute. Citizens also have duties and responsibilities toward their nation, which include being law-abiding and loyal. It is important to understand your rights, but it is equally crucial to fulfill your responsibilities.
“The red bands we wear signify that our command is on high alert. Those claiming they were not served court orders must understand that serving faceless individuals presents challenges. Their threats were made on social media, and they were served through the same platform,” he stated.
Egbetokun expressed his sorrow over the loss of four lives in Borno due to an IED explosion. He also noted the police’s successful prevention of a similar incident in Lagos.
