Ahead of the planned August 2 nationwide strike and protest of the organized labour movements, the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has warned leaders of the labour movement against any form of violent protest.
In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP expresses deep concerns over the planned protest, urging the labor unions to conduct the protest in a peaceful manner.
“While being mindful of the right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in our Constitution, the IGP urges all parties involved to ensure that the planned demonstrations are conducted in a peaceful manner to prevent being hijacked by miscreants, owing to the previous ugly experiences of such protests in most major cosmopolitan cities in the country. The IGP, however, acknowledges the grievances raised by the labor unions and the importance of constructive dialogue, which is sine qua non, in addressing these issues.
“In light of this, the IGP orders the Commissioners of Police in charge of various commands and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police to engage in fruitful discussions with the NLC/TUC leadership to foster understanding and reach common ground on the planned protests. A peaceful and coordinated approach is crucial to achieving meaningful solutions and preventing any form of violence or disruptions to public order, should the protests persist.
“The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens during the period of the planned protests, as all necessary measures to facilitate the peaceful conduct of these demonstrations have been taken.” However, it is hereby reaffirmed that any attempt by miscreants to exploit the situation for violent purposes, viz. vandalism, gangsterism, and extortion, will be met with a firm, professional, and commensurately lawful approach. The Police will not tolerate any act that threatens the peace and well-being of our country.” The statement reads.
The Police boss further urges all stakeholders, including the NLC, TUC, and other civil society groups, to embrace peaceful dialogue as the most effective means of resolving grievances.
Recall that the organized labor movements in Nigeria had insisted on going ahead with the nationwide strike and protest until the Federal Government implemented policies that would lessen the biting effect of subsidy removal, which also included the increment of workers salaries.
