Olarenwaju Ishola, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, has issued a caution in advance of the countrywide demonstration that a number of civil society organizations have scheduled for October 1.
The demonstration is a reaction to the continued suffering that Nigerians endure. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Traditional elders and religious leaders from over the state gathered at a town hall meeting on Friday, where CP Ishola urged any individual or group against interfering with or taking over the demonstration. He made it clear that there would be no room for any attempt to undermine law and order.
In addition, the Lagos State Police Chief promised locals that there would be a strong police presence to provide security and uphold law and order throughout the scheduled protests.
We’re not stopping anyone from demonstrating; it’s your right to do so. We’ll guard everything to prevent criminals from taking advantage of it,” he declared.
The chief of police reaffirmed that the command would uphold its duty to make sure that no person or group would be permitted to incite violence or damage property within the state.
“Protesters shouldn’t infringe upon the rights of others or disturb the tranquility in the community. Any act of violence or lawlessness will not be tolerated.
“Independence Day is a day of celebration, but some groups of people want to use that day for other purposes.
“We as security agencies, will do all within our best to ensure that we have a good turnout for the independence celebrations. The protesters should not disturb people who want to celebrate,” he said.
The CP added: “The police will enforce the court order restricting the nationwide protests against hunger and economic hardships to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota.
“The protesters must keep within the ambience of what the law says, no other place in Lagos is approved.”
In his address, Dapo Amao, the Director of the Department of State Service in Lagos State, emphasized that citizens possess the right to protest or voice their dissatisfaction with the government; however, such actions must be conducted in a civilized manner.
He highlighted the importance of safeguarding the protest from being taken over by individuals intent on disrupting public order and instigating chaos within the state.
“We will collaborate with other security agencies to ensure lives and property are secured.
“We will provide an enabling environment for business to thrive and make sure that things do not get out of hand,” he said.
Protesters, as he stated, ought to refrain from disrupting residents in their pursuit of lawful activities, ensuring that there is no harassment, disturbance, or destruction of public order.
He called upon citizens to allow the government the necessary time to rectify the situation.
Adedotun Keshinro, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Lagos State Command, encouraged individuals to return to their respective communities and grant the government the time it requires.
“Do not allow the protest to escalate to violence, If there must be protest, it must be peaceful,” he said.
He also promised to collaborate with other security agencies to protect lives and property.
