Police confirm request for protest details, citing security concerns

Nigerian police have defended their request for details of organisers of planned nationwide protests, saying the move was driven by security concerns.

On Friday, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun ordered protest organizers to provide details, proposed routes and assembly points to their respective state Commissioners of Police. The request was met with resistance from protest organizers, who accused the Inspector General of attempting to alter constitutional rights.

Deji Adeyanju, one of the organizers, argued that the IG’s request had no constitutional basis.

He said, “When the constitution gives citizens the right to protest, does the constitution give any conditions for protest? Is the IG trying to rewrite the constitution? Is he trying to give rights to citizens or what? He has no such authority. The constitution and other laws of the country do not give the IG the authority to dictate how citizens should protest.”

In response, police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi issued a statement on Sunday, asserting that the request was a routine procedure intended to ensure effective communication, maintain the safety of participants and prevent unlawful activities.

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Adejobi said, “The Nigerian Police Force hereby responds to the recent allegations levelled by an activist, Deji Adeyanju, and others through various forums, alleging that the Chief of Police is attempting to rewrite the constitution by questioning the organizers and leaders of the planned nationwide protests.”

He stressed the importance of knowing who is planning the protests in each state to avoid potential threats to peace and stability.

Adejobi noted, “Allowing unrecognized groups to act unchecked could jeopardize the peace and stability of the country, leaving us with suffering, sorrow and tears as experienced during the violent EndSARS protests in 2020. If trade unions and other recognized bodies were involved, it would provide a more structured and safe environment for such public protests.”

He explained that IG’s request for protest details was a standard procedure intended to facilitate communication and maintain public safety.

Adejobi further asserted that the IG “never denies the constitutional right of every citizen to freedom of association and expression,” but stressed that the police are responsible for ensuring that protests do not threaten national security.

Adejobi added, “It is important for Deji Adeyanju to note that in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health; or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others as enshrined in Section 45 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, this request by the IGP is not out of place.”

He urged activists and other organizers “not to mislead Nigerians” and called for collaborative efforts to ensure national security and public welfare.

Police justify request for protest details, cite security concerns first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.