Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olarenwaju Ishola, has issued a strong and clear warning ahead of the nationwide protest scheduled for October 1st. This protest, organized by various civil society groups, is in response to the current economic hardships and social challenges being faced by Nigerians. In anticipation of the demonstration, the Lagos Police command is taking steps to ensure that the protest proceeds peacefully and that no disruptions or incidents of violence occur.
Speaking at a town hall meeting held on Friday, which brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other community stakeholders from across the state, Commissioner of Police (CP) Olarenwaju Ishola reiterated the importance of maintaining law and order during the protests. He cautioned individuals or groups against disrupting or hijacking the protest. He stressed that any attempts to instigate violence or cause a breakdown of public peace would not be tolerated by the police, and those who engage in such activities would be dealt with according to the law.
The Lagos State Police Chief assured residents that there would be a robust and visible police presence throughout the duration of the protest. He emphasized that the police force would be on the ground to ensure the safety of both the protesters and the general public, preventing any unlawful actions that could lead to violence or destruction. CP Ishola acknowledged that it is within the rights of Nigerians to protest peacefully and express their grievances. However, he emphasized the importance of keeping the demonstration within the bounds of the law. “We are not stopping anybody from protesting, it is your legitimate right. We will protect all so that miscreants do not hijack it,” he said.
He further stated that while the police force is committed to protecting the rights of peaceful protesters, they would not allow anyone to trample on the rights of others, disrupt public peace, or engage in lawlessness. The Commissioner emphasized that Independence Day, which is typically a day of celebration for the nation, should not be marred by disorder or violence. “Independence Day is a day of celebration, but some groups of people want to use that day for other purposes. We as security agencies will do all within our best to ensure that we have a good turnout for the independence celebrations. The protesters should not disturb people who want to celebrate,” he said.
In addition, CP Ishola noted that the Lagos State Police Command would strictly enforce a court order that restricts the nationwide protests against hunger and economic hardships to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota. The protesters, he said, must abide by this ruling and conduct their activities within the approved location. “The protesters must keep within the ambience of what the law says, no other place in Lagos is approved,” he added, warning that any deviation from this would not be tolerated by law enforcement agencies.
Dapo Amao, the Director of the Department of State Service (DSS) in Lagos State, echoed similar sentiments during the meeting. He emphasized that while Nigerians have the right to protest and voice their dissatisfaction with the government, these protests must be carried out in a civilized and peaceful manner. He stressed the need to ensure that the protests are not hijacked by individuals or groups with malicious intent, who may seek to cause disorder or disrupt public peace.
Amao reassured residents that the DSS would collaborate with other security agencies, including the police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to safeguard lives and property during the protests. “We will collaborate with other security agencies to ensure lives and property are secured. We will provide an enabling environment for business to thrive and make sure that things do not get out of hand,” he said. He urged protesters to conduct themselves peacefully, without infringing on the rights of other citizens, and to refrain from causing disturbances or harassing law-abiding residents.
In his remarks, Amao emphasized the importance of maintaining public order, adding that citizens should exercise patience and allow the government sufficient time to address the economic challenges currently facing the nation. He called on protesters to avoid any actions that could lead to violence or escalate tensions within the state.
Adedotun Keshinro, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Lagos State Command, also spoke at the town hall meeting. He encouraged individuals to return to their communities and allow the government the time it needs to resolve the current situation. “Do not allow the protest to escalate to violence. If there must be protest, it must be peaceful,” Keshinro said. He also pledged that the NSCDC would work in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property during the protests, further assuring residents that law enforcement would remain vigilant to prevent any acts of violence.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all security agencies present to uphold peace and ensure that the October 1st protest is conducted in a lawful and orderly manner. As Lagos prepares for both its Independence Day celebrations and the planned protests, security forces remain on high alert to prevent any breakdown of law and order in the state.