IGP Kayode Egbetokun orders police to decisively handle arsonists and troublemakers during #EndBadGovernance protests starting August 1. The protests address economic hardship and hunger. Police are on high alert, with firm directives to protect lives and properties.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has instructed officers nationwide to take decisive action against arsonists and troublemakers during the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protests. The protests, scheduled to begin on August 1, 2024, are in response to widespread hunger and economic hardship. In a statement issued on the eve of the protests, Egbetokun criticized the organizers for failing to provide necessary details, such as participant names and rally routes. He expressed concerns that the movement, known as the "Take It Back Movement," could lead to violence and unrest.
The IGP emphasized that the police would not tolerate any actions that could escalate into chaos. He ordered all police formations to be on high alert to safeguard lives and properties. Officers were directed to act firmly against any acts of arson, intimidation, harassment, threats to lives, property damage, or breaches of peace that might arise during the protests. Egbetokun assured that any perpetrators of criminal activities would be arrested and prosecuted promptly.
The nationwide protests, gaining momentum on social media, are set to occur across all states and Abuja. They come amidst soaring prices of food and basic commodities, driven by the government's removal of petrol subsidies and unification of forex windows. Despite warnings from police, military, and the Department of State Services, and appeals from politicians to avoid a repeat of the October 2020 EndSARS protests, determined youths insist the protests will proceed.
The situation remains tense as Nigerians brace for the demonstrations, hoping for a peaceful resolution to their grievances.
