Ahead of its protest sheduled for tommorow, August 2, 2023, the acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has cautioned the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) against allowing the protest turn violent.
Egbetokun made this known in a statement on Tuesday.
According to him, although the constitution gives citizens the right to peaceful protest, parties involved parties must ensure the demonstrations remain peaceful and not be hijacked by miscreants.
The IGP called for constructive dialogue in resolving the issues while acknowledging their grievances.
Against this backdrop, he 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 police boss reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensuring the safety and security of citizens during the protests.
Similarly, he warned that the Police would not tolerate any act of vandalism, gangsterism, or extortion that threatens public peace and order.
The statement noted that in light of the potential security challenges the planned protests might pose, the IGP has ordered a watertight security strategy across the country.
Also, he called on all police officers to remain vigilant, professional, and uphold the highest standards of conduct.
Furthermore, 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.
He reassured them of the Police’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment conducive for open dialogue and constructive engagement.