The acting Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Tuesday warned the labour leaders that the force would not in any way tolerate violent protest during their demonstration billed to hold on Wednesday.
Lat week the organised labour had declared that it would embark on a nationwide strike and protest to press home their demands against reversal of recent fuel price hike as well as other policies described as anti-masses.
But the police chief expressed concerns about recent developments regarding planned nationwide protest being organised by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).
Speaking to journalists at Force Headquarters, the spokesman of the Nigerian Police, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, noted that while being mindful of the right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, the IGP urged all parties involved to ensure that the planned demonstrations were conducted in a peaceful manner.
Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, said the labour leaders should ensure that they prevent the demonstration from being hijacked by miscreants, sequel to the previous ugly experiences of such protests in most major cosmopolitan cities in the country.
According to him, the IGP acknowledged the grievances raised by the labour unions and the importance of constructive dialogue, which he considers very vital in addressing these issues.
The IGP, however, ordered the Commissioners of Police in charge of various commands and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, to engage in fruitful discussions with the NLC/TUC leadership to foster understanding and reach common grounds on the planned protest.
“A peaceful and coordinated approach is crucial to achieving meaningful solutions and preventing any form of violence or disruptions to public order, should the protests persist.
“The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens during the period of the planned protests as all necessary measures to facilitate the peaceful conduct of these demonstrations have been emplaced.
“However, it is hereby reaffirmed that any attempt by miscreants to exploit the situation for violent purposes viz-a-viz vandalism, gangsterism, and extortion will be met with firm, professional and commensurate lawful approach.
“The Police will not tolerate any act that threatens the peace and well-being of our country.
“In light of the potential challenges posed by the planned protests, the Nigeria Police Force is fully prepared to deploy all available resources to maintain law and order and to protect the lives and property of our citizens.
“The IGP therefore calls on all officers to be vigilant, professional, and uphold the highest standards of conduct during this period,” he said.
