The Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Tuesday warned against violent protest in the country as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) mobilise for mass protest across the country on Wednesday.
IGP Egbetokun, acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful protests, appealed to the Organised Labour to ensure the mass action in protest of the subsidy removal and hardship in Nigeria is peaceful and not be hijacked by miscreants.
The IGP, acknowledging the right of labour unions to express their grievances, emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue in resolving the issues.
The Force Public Relations Officers in a statement on Tuesday indicated that the IGP has, therefore, directed the Commissioners of Police across various commands and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police to engage with the NLC and TUC leadership to find common ground regarding the protests.
The statement further indicated that IGP Egbetokun reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensuring the safety and security of citizens during the protests.
He cautioned that the Police would not tolerate any act of vandalism, gangsterism, or extortion that threatens public peace and order.
The statement further read:
“In light of the potential security challenges the planned protests might pose, the IGP has ordered a watertight security strategy across the country.
“He called on all police officers to remain vigilant, professional, and uphold the highest standards of conduct.
“Additionally, the IGP urged all stakeholders, including the NLC, TUC, and civil society groups, to choose peaceful dialogue as the most effective means of addressing grievances.”
Egbetokun assured Nigerians of the commitment of the Police to maintaining a secure environment conducive for open dialogue and constructive engagement.