Hunger Protest: IGP orders Squad Commanders to prevent violence, anarchy

Ahead of the planned nationwide protest, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has ordered commanders of Tactical Squads, to take charge of their areas of operations by preventing violence and anarchy across the country.

The order comes following determination by the organisers of the protest to proceed with the protest, despite appeals by the government, individuals and groups.

Addressing the commanders from the Police Mobile Force’s Counter Terrorism Unit and Special Protection Unit in Abuja on Saturday, Egbetokun said citizens have a right to peaceful protest, however, such rights must not be allowed to infringe on the rights of others.

The inspector general of police also stressed the need for the commanders to ensure that all officers, and men of the force remain professional by exercising utmost restraint in the face of provocation.

Egbetokun had earlier requested demonstrators to submit their details to the police.

While briefing journalists in Abuja on Friday, he specifically asked all groups planning to participate in the demonstrations to submit their details to the commissioners of police in their respective states.