Protest: IG lectures police on professionalism, orders strategy deployment ‬

Protest: IG lectures police on professionalism, orders strategy deployment ‬

‪Abdullateef Fowewe‬

‪Ahead of the planned nationwide protest, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, lectured the Nigeria Police Force tactical commanders on professionalism and the rule of law compliance and has ordered strategic deployment of police forces across the nation.

‪The IG in the statement on Sunday by the force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi held an emergency meeting with tactical commanders of the NPF to emphasise the principles of professionalism and abidance to the rule of law in managing public demonstrations on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

The tactical commanders which comprise leaders of units of the Police Mobile Force, Counter Terrorism Unit, and Special Protection Unit met at the Goodluck Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

The IG according to Adejobi reminded the officers that while the right to peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right, it is crucial that the police ensure these protests do not escalate into violence in light of recent intelligence.

Adejobi enunciates, “The IGP has also ordered the strategic deployment of police forces across the nation. All commanders have been directed to withdraw officers from extra-policing services to ensure all squadrons and bases are fully prepared to provide immediate support to their respective state commands to prevent any escalation of violence and manage protests effectively, ensuring the protection of lives and property.

“The IGP reiterated that all police actions must be conducted within the ambit of the law, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.

“He also emphasised that the safety of police officers is paramount and urged them to protect themselves and employ proactive measures in maintaining order while ensuring the protection of the public. He equally called on all members of the public to view the police as strategic partners in maintaining peace and security, encouraging them to support the police in their efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment.”

Dailyeconomy on July 22, 2024, reported that the NPF clarified that a circulating social media message alongside a photo of IGP did not originate from their office.