Policemen
A showdown is likely today between the police and a group of protesters in Lagos, Abuja and some other capital cities, such as Ibadan and Port Harcourt.
A massive deployment of security men is expected across the country.
The police warned that it would not take kindly to a protest it described as “potential unrest or confrontation” planned by the “Take it Back Movement”.
It described the action as that of “subversive elements” acting on the pretence of economic hardship.
The Take it Back Movement group said the protest is against cyberbullying and the emergency declaration in Rivers State.It added that it opposes the “illegal” extension of tenure for Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
The group said its members would converge under the bridge in Ikeja, Lagos, the frontage of the National Assembly complex in Abuja, Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt and Iwo Road in Ibadan.
While the police cautioned against the protest, which it described as sabotage having fallen on National Police Day, one of the organisers, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, a politician, insisted last night that the protest would go on.
Police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner, said: “The Nigeria Police Force acknowledges the constitutional right of citizens to peaceful protest.
“However, given the significance of April 7 as National Police Day, we urge the organisers to reconsider the timing of their planned demonstration.
“This is a day of national reflection and recognition for the force, and it is important that the occasion is not overshadowed by potential unrest or confrontation.“In line with best global practices adopted by nations in celebrating the achievements of its Police institution, the Nigerian Government has taken the bull by the horns by declaring every April 7 as National Police Day.“The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is, however, questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole.
“The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organisers to shelve this planned protest as it is ill-timed and mischievous.”
The police spokesman added that the National Police Day event would host high-profile dignitaries from within and outside the country, including foreign Inspector-Generals of Police and diplomats. Nation
