#EndBadGovernance: Avoid Violent Confrontation With Protesters, IG Tells Senior Police Officers

The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, on Wednesday, advised police officers to avoid violent confrontation with those who will be protesting.

Egbetokun also directed police officers to ensure that proactive measures are in place to ensure that the planned protests do not turn into violent, adding that Nigeria cannot afford to record any at this period.

The IGP spoke while addressing a virtual conference with senior police officers from across the country.

The conference focused on critical issues of preparedness, deployment, and the maintenance of law and order during the planned nationwide protest in the country.

The IGP in his address, also emphasised that while peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right, the police must be vigilant to prevent any group from hijacking such events to incite violence.

He warned against unplanned protests and unnecessary street processions, which can disrupt public order and safety reiterating that confined protests are best in this situation to prevent the destruction of public infrastructures and other properties.

The IGP also issued a stern warning against the spread of fake news via various media platforms, charging officers to put in place necessary measures to manage this, while advising members of the public to shun the spread of unverified content on social media.

While emphasizing the importance of maintaining a high level of alertness and professionalism, Egbetokun noted that the safety and security of the nation depend on the vigilance, gallantry, and readiness of officers in the Police and other security agencies.