By Abiola Olawale
The Inspector-General of Police(IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has instructed organisers of the planned nationwide protest slated to start on August 1 to submit their names, contact details and other means of identification.
Egbetokun, who spoke with journalists on Friday, said the instruction was given to avert plans by some “bad elements” who might attempt to hijack the protests.
The IGP boss explained that the details submitted by the organisers of the protest would allow the Police to identify the peaceful protesters and the violent protesters.
He said: “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 the protest is intended to take place.
“To facilitate a successful and incident-free protest, they should please provide the following information: state the proposed protest routes and assembly points; expected duration of the protest; and names and contact details of protest leaders and organisers.”
The IG also reiterated the police’s determination to deploy adequate personnel and resources to ensure public safety.
He maintained that the Force needs to know the specific routes and areas for the protest to avoid conflicts with other events or activities.
