Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun on Tuesday condemned the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, urging citizens to abandon the initiative. His comments came in response to social media campaigns calling for the protest due to the current economic hardships in the country.
During a meeting with police commissioners in Abuja, Egbetokun expressed concerns about the potential for violence and disorder, citing the destructive consequences of previous protests. He noted that the #EndSARS protests, in particular, led to significant damage to public assets and an increase in crime and insecurity.
Egbetokun emphasized, “It is important to address the issue of the planned protest, which has gained momentum on social media. Some groups are mobilizing people to protest under the guise of replicating recent protests in Kenya. While the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally guaranteed, we must prevent these protests from escalating into violence.”
He added, “The last #EndSARS protest resulted in extensive damage to police stations, courts, and transport infrastructure, and caused numerous casualties. The aftermath was marked by significant economic losses and psychological trauma, and the situation has yet to fully recover.”
The IGP called for the abandonment of the planned protest, stating that the police are committed to protecting citizens and their properties. He warned that any attempts to incite violence or disguise criminal activities as protests would be met with firm action.
Egbetokun concluded, “We have implemented measures to prevent any individuals or groups from disrupting public order or damaging national infrastructure. We urge those considering violent actions to reconsider and avoid any attempts to create chaos. The police will not stand by while violent activities threaten our peaceful communities or national assets.”
