Ayuba Sanusi
THE Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has described a national protest scheduled to take place on Monday 7th April 2025, a day earmarked by the Federal Government as the National Police Day, to celebrate the resilience and dedication of officers and men of the Force, as ill-timed and mischievous.
According to the Force, while not against the exercise of citizens’ right to peaceful assembly and association in Nigeria as enshrined in the Constitution, it is however deeply concerned about the motive behind such protest scheduled on the same day the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force to national security is to be celebrated, putting into consideration that such glamorous event would bring together dignitaries from all spheres of life both internationally and within the country, including foreign Inspectors-General of Police and diplomats.
Eighteen-Eleven Media reports that in line with best global practices adopted by nations in celebrating the achievements of its Police institution, the Nigerian government has taken the bull by the horns by declaring every 7 April as National Police Day.
However, the Police hierarchy maintains that the rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole.
“The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organisers to shelve this planned protest as it is ill-timed and mischievous.
“The Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, while reaffirming the commitment of the NPF to adequately carry out its mandate in accordance with the law and respect for rights of citizens hereby urges all the organisers of the planned protest as well as individuals who intend to join the protest to pursue dialogue by engaging the proper institution of government to press home their demands”, the Force stated.
The planned nationwide protest is spearheaded by “Take it Back Movement”.
Eighteen-Eleven Media