Oct 1 protest: Lagos Police Chief warns against violence, experts all for caution

Ahead of planned nationwide protests on Independence Day, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olarenwaju Ishola, has warned against any breakdown of law and order, emphasizing the need for peaceful demonstrations.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ town hall meeting organized by the Police Command in Ikeja, Ishola affirmed the police’s commitment to maintaining peace during the protests while ensuring citizens’ rights to protest are protected.

“We are not stopping anyone from protesting—it is your legitimate right,” Ishola said.

“However, we will ensure that miscreants do not hijack the process and that public safety is maintained.” He stressed that while the police would not allow violence or property destruction, they aim to prevent protesters from disrupting public peace or trampling on the rights of others who wish to celebrate the national holiday.

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Security experts echoed his sentiments. Dapo Amao, Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos, raised concerns about the potential for protests to be hijacked by hoodlums, warning that such incidents could lead to chaos and property damage.

“We will ensure that the environment remains conducive for businesses to operate and that things do not spiral out of control,” Amao stated, calling for vigilance and cooperation between security forces and citizens.

Similarly, Adetokun Keshinro, the Lagos State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), urged protesters to exercise restraint. “Protests must remain peaceful. We ask citizens to give the government time and avoid allowing these protests to escalate into violence,” he advised.

Analysts see these warnings as a balanced approach, ensuring that while citizens can express their grievances, the potential for unrest is mitigated.