Organizers of the #EndBadGovernance protests slated for August have rejected the IGP's proposal for confined demonstrations, insisting on street processions. The protests aim to address economic hardships in Nigeria. The IGP warns of security risks, but organizers pledge peaceful demonstrations and request police protection.
Organizers of the planned #EndBadGovernance protests scheduled for August have rejected the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun’s proposal to confine demonstrations to specific locations. At a meeting on July 30, 2024, the IGP advised against street processions, citing security concerns and potential violence. He suggested that confined protests in identified locations would ensure the safety of demonstrators.
However, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), representing the Take It Back Movement, and other organizers, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and members of civil society organizations, insisted on street rallies. Adegboruwa argued that peaceful processions are essential and requested police protection for the demonstrators.
The planned protests aim to address the economic hardship in Nigeria, marked by skyrocketing food prices and severe inflation due to recent government policies like the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of forex windows. Despite warnings from the police and government officials about potential violence, the organizers remain determined to proceed with the demonstrations.
The IGP emphasized the need for confined protests, warning that street processions could be exploited by malicious elements. He acknowledged that some individuals inciting violence had been apprehended and urged the focus to be on preventing disruption by these elements.
In response, Adegboruwa stated that processions would lead to designated locations where speeches and gatherings would occur. He also assured that the protests are not intended to be destructive and that efforts would be made to maintain peace.
The IGP agreed to provide security at the specified locations but reiterated his concerns about guaranteeing safety during street processions. He advised organizers to coordinate with local police to ensure adequate security measures are in place.
