The Lagos police command has affirmed citizens' rights to peaceful protest while cautioning against any acts of violence. The command's public relations officer, Superintendent of Police Benjamin Hundeyin, emphasized the force’s dedication to maintaining peace and order during upcoming demonstrations.
“Everyone is entitled to freedom of association, movement, and expression. People are free to come out and protest, and we will be there to provide security to make sure everything goes smoothly,” Hundeyin stated. He highlighted the deployment of significant human and operational resources to protect peaceful protesters and ensure law and order are upheld. However, he issued a stern warning to potential troublemakers.
“Anyone who intends to be violent or to destroy other people’s property will meet us in the field. We have already deployed the necessary resources to ensure peace and prevent any breakdown of law and order. People are free to protest within the law peacefully, but lawbreakers will be apprehended and made to face the law,” Hundeyin warned.
He addressed concerns about the organization of the protests, noting that while protests are often spontaneous and without clear leadership, some individuals had communicated specific plans for a protest on a certain day, following certain routes. Despite being invited to discuss security arrangements, these individuals did not show up. Hundeyin referenced the severe consequences of the 2020 EndSARS protests, including looted warehouses and significant property damage, to highlight the importance of peaceful demonstrations.
“We will use tear gas, which doesn’t kill but causes discomfort in the eyes, and if the violence escalates, we will step up our response,” he warned. Hundeyin urged all protesters to conduct themselves within the law and not to interfere with those who choose not to protest. “The police will be there to protect and arrest lawbreakers,” he assured.
