Lagos Police Issue Public Warning Ahead of October 1 Hardship Protest
The Lagos State Police Command has issued a stern warning to individuals or groups planning to hijack or disrupt the forthcoming protest on October 1, which is being organized in response to the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians. The police emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order during the demonstration and reiterated their commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for both protesters and the general public.
Police Caution Against Disruption and Violence
At a town hall meeting held on Friday, attended by traditional rulers and religious leaders across Lagos State, the Commissioner of Police (CP) in Lagos, CP Ishola, warned potential troublemakers against disrupting the planned protest. He firmly stated that while citizens have a legitimate right to protest, the police will not tolerate any actions that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
“We are not stopping anybody from protesting; it is your legitimate right. We will protect all so that miscreants do not hijack it,” said CP Ishola. He assured residents that the police command would take all necessary measures to prevent violence and destruction of property during the protest.
Police Prepared to Ensure Safety
The Lagos Police Chief further reassured residents of a strong police presence to ensure public safety throughout the protest. He reiterated the command’s commitment to upholding its mandate of protecting lives and property, warning that protesters must not infringe on the rights of others or disrupt public peace.
"Protesters should not trample on other people’s rights or disrupt public peace. We will not condone any act of lawlessness or violence," he emphasized. CP Ishola also noted that Independence Day, traditionally a day of celebration, should not be overshadowed by protests aimed at creating disorder.
“We as security agencies will do all within our best to ensure a peaceful celebration of Independence Day. The protesters should not disturb those who want to celebrate,” he added.
Restriction on Protest Locations
CP Ishola highlighted the court’s decision to restrict the nationwide protest against hunger and economic hardships to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota. He made it clear that no other locations in Lagos have been approved for protests, and the police will strictly enforce this court order.
“The protesters must keep within the ambit of what the law says. No other place in Lagos is approved,” he stressed.
Collaboration with Other Security Agencies
In a related development, Dapo Amao, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos State, echoed the police chief’s sentiments, urging protesters to exercise their rights in a civilized manner. He emphasized the importance of preventing individuals from hijacking the protest to create chaos and destabilize public order.
“We will collaborate with other security agencies to ensure lives and property are secured,” Amao said. He assured the public that the security forces would create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, while ensuring the protest does not spiral into violence.
Call for Patience and Peaceful Protest
Adedotun Keshinro, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Lagos, also appealed to protesters to remain peaceful. He called on citizens to give the government the time it needs to address the prevailing economic challenges, warning that violence would only worsen the situation.
“Do not allow the protest to escalate to violence. If there must be a protest, it must be peaceful,” Keshinro said. He also pledged the NSCDC’s cooperation with other security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property during the protest.
In conclusion, security agencies in Lagos are taking proactive steps to ensure that the October 1 protest remains peaceful and free from violence, while urging protesters to abide by the law and respect the rights of others.
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