Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police condemned the violence and looting during the first day of the EndBadGovernance protest. Despite warnings, widespread unrest resulted in deaths and property damage. The police are on high alert, urging protestors to respect court orders and cooperate with law enforcement to maintain peace.
Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has condemned the violence and looting that marred the first day of the EndBadGovernance protest. Despite warnings from security agencies, the nationwide protest against hardship in Nigeria saw widespread unrest, particularly in Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT Abuja, Niger, Jigawa, and Nasarawa States. Several deaths and extensive property damage were reported, leading some states to impose curfews.
At a press conference, Egbetokun criticized protest organizers for failing to lead and maintain control, resulting in chaos. He reiterated that while peaceful protests are a constitutional right, they must respect court orders and public safety measures. The police had earlier advised protestors to confine their demonstrations to specific locations to ensure protection and isolate potential criminal activities.
Egbetokun revealed that intelligence had indicated that the protests might turn violent, a prediction that was unfortunately confirmed. He disclosed that miscreants exploited the situation to loot and destroy property, both private and governmental, including police stations and warehouses.
The IGP highlighted incidents of unprovoked attacks on security personnel and warned that terror elements might infiltrate protest crowds. In Borno State, an explosion among protesters resulted in four deaths and 34 injuries. The police have placed all units on red alert and pledged to respond decisively to further threats. Egbetokun urged citizens to heed security warnings and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure peace and stability.
