While recognising the importance of peaceful protest, the Nigeria Police Force remains vigilant against any attempts to hijack such protests by individuals or groups of persons with sinister intents.”

By Saidu Idris

365Daily – The Nigerian Police Force has disclosed that its officers are on red alert nationwide in readiness for the planned nationwide strike by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) scheduled to hold on February 27 and 28, 2024.

The NLC had declared the national protest against the failure of the government to implement agreements reached between both parties on October 2, 2023, to cushion hardship on Nigerians following the removal of fuel subsidy on May 29.

It had earlier issued a 14-day ultimatum to the federal government to implement the agreements.

In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Monday, February 26, 2024, the spokesman assured that the force will uphold the protection of citizens’ rights and freedom to engage in the protests.

“The Nigeria Police Force, on the heels of the proposed nationwide protest by the Nigeria Labour Congress, hereby affirms the fundamental right of all citizens of the country to engage in peaceful protest in line with extant laws. As such, the NPF reiterates its commitment to ensuring the rights and freedom of protesters are protected,” it stated.

Going further, it added, “In line with its lawful duty to maintain law and order, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed personnel nationwide and placed them on red alert to monitor the planned protest. All Commissioners of Police and their respective supervising officers have been briefed and instructed to coordinate the officers on the ground in ensuring the safety and security of all participants if the protests are held as planned,” the statement partly read.

Adejobi, in the statement, said while the police recognised the importance of the protests, it remained vigilant to prevent any attempts to hijack the protests, and that officers would also curb any attempts to create unrest, as the police will not tolerate breakdown of law and order.

The force spokesperson added that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has appealed to protesters to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly and adhere to the principles of non-violence and respect for the rights of others, during the protests.

“While recognising the importance of peaceful protest, the Nigeria Police Force remains vigilant against any attempts to hijack such protests by individuals or groups of persons with sinister intents. Emphatically, the force, therefore, is fully prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any unlawful activities or acts of violence that may threaten peace, public safety, and security in the event of such,” the statement added.