Police authorities across Nigeria have placed their officers on high alert in response to a planned nationwide protest by the Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society groups.
The protest, set for Monday (today), is being held to speak out against economic hardship, suppression of civil rights, and the crisis in Rivers State.
Protesters are also challenging the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act.
Despite warnings from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) advising the protesters to cancel the demonstration, the organisers say they will not back down.
In Abuja, protesters plan to gather at the National Assembly. National Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the protest is peaceful and aimed at addressing key national concerns. He criticised past government actions during previous protests and expressed the public’s growing frustration.
Another coordinator, Adenola Michael, said they will not be discouraged by police threats and will exercise their democratic rights.
However, police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi questioned the motive and timing of the protest, saying it coincides with the first-ever National Police Day, a day meant to honour police officers. He described the protest as “ill-timed and mischievous.”
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, urged protesters to embrace dialogue and use formal channels to express their concerns.
In states like Lagos, Osun, Adamawa, Ogun, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory, police have deployed officers to protect important buildings and prevent potential violence. Intelligence reports suggest some criminal elements might take advantage of the protest to cause chaos.
State police commissioners assured citizens they would maintain law and order and encouraged everyone to report any suspicious activity. However, some states, like Ogun, reported no official notification about the protest but promised to respond to any disturbances.
