Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the acting inspector general of police (IGP), has voiced extreme worry about the forthcoming statewide protests that the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have called for.
Egbetokun has urged the concerned parties to make sure the protests stay peaceful and aren’t taken over by criminals despite acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful protests.
The IGP stressed the value of constructive conversation in resolving the difficulties while acknowledging the labor unions’ complaints.
In this regard, he has instructed the Commissioners of Police in charge of various commands and the assistant inspectors general who supervise them to speak with the NLC and TUC leadership in order to find a solution to the protests.
Dr. Egbetokun reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting civilians throughout the protests in a statement on Tuesday.
He additionally reaffirmed that any act of vandalism, gangsterism, or extortion that endangered public peace and order would not be tolerated by the Police.
The IGP has mandated a tight security plan across the nation due to the potential security risks the anticipated protests may present. He urged all police personnel to uphold the highest standards of conduct while remaining alert and professional.
In addition, the IGP advised everyone involved, including the NLC, TUC, and civil society organizations, to select peaceful conversation as the best way to resolve differences.
He informed them of the Police’s dedication to upholding a safe environment favorable to candid communication and productive interaction.
