Intelligence Confirms Involvement Of Foreign Mercenaries In Planned Protest—IGP Egbetokun
•••Tasks Citizens On Peaceful Protest
Addressing a press conference, on Friday at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, the IGP revealed that they have uncovered “credible intelligence” about the “involvement of foreign mercenaries” in the planned protest.
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While restating the right of citizens to peaceful protest, Egbetokun warned that the police “will not tolerate the killing of innocent citizens, destruction of public infrastructure and private property, or looting of private businesses.”
He also advised those groups planning to protest to “provide necessary details” to the Commissioner of Police in the state where protest is intended to take place.
In his words, “We note those who have spoken out against any form of protest at this critical juncture, fearing enemies of our country may be manipulating the process. We confirm their fears are genuine, as we have credible intelligence on foreign mercenaries’ involvement in this planned protest.
“The Nigerian police urge all Nigerians to exercise caution and think twice before joining any protest group. While we alert citizens to the sinister motives of certain groups planning to wreak havoc, it has become clear that even a peaceful protest at this time may be ill-timed.
“We issue a stern warning to clandestine groups plotting to destabilize the country and hoodlums seeking to exploit protests for their criminal agendas. We will not tolerate the killing of innocent citizens, destruction of public infrastructure and private property, or looting of private businesses.
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“We acknowledge the constitutional right of Nigerian citizens to peaceful assembly and protest. However, in the interest of public safety and order, we urge all groups planning to protest to provide necessary details to the Commissioner of Police in the state where protest is intended to take place.
“To facilitate a successful and incident-free protest, they should please provide the following information. Proposed protest routes and assembly points, expected duration of the protest, names and contact details of protest leaders and organizers.
“Measures to prevent hijacking by criminal elements, including key identifiers for possible isolation of potential troublemakers. By providing this information, the police will be enabled to deploy adequate personnel and resources to ensure public safety.
“Designate specific routes and areas for the protest to avoid conflicts with other events or activities, establish clear communication channels with protest leaders to address any concerns or issues that may arise, minimize the risk of violence, property damage, or other criminal activity.
“We encourage all protestors to cooperate with the police, obey the law, and adhere to global best practices for peaceful assembly to guarantee a safe and successful exercise of their rights.”
The Police Boss also stressed that, the Force is committed to working with all Nigerians to promote peaceful expression and maintain public order. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. May the God of all creations help us to build our nation.
Earlier, the IGP explained that, the briefing is aimed to address the issues in Nigeria, particularly the planned protest scheduled for August 1st, 2024 across the country.
He added that, the Force has been monitoring development surrounding protest threats. While some groups call for violent protests, emulating Kenya’s recent events, others advocate for peaceful demonstrations.
Some individuals are however, promoting peaceful protests with violent undertones, raising concerns about their sincerity.
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He disclosed that, “We have our own history of violent protests in Nigeria, and I don’t believe we have to look to other countries to note the dangers of unchecked demonstrations. We commend patriots who have withdrawn from the protest due to the apparent sinister motives and ignorance of those calling for violence.”
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