The Inspector-General of Police, IGP
Ibrahim K Idris NPM, mni wishes to state categorically that
at no time did Nigeria Police Force place a ban on peaceful public
protest/procession anywhere in Nigeria most particularly Federal Capital
Territory.
Peaceful Public protest/procession
is an integral part of democratic norms in as much as it conforms with the rule
of law and public order.
The Nigeria Police Force recognises
the constitutional rights of every law abiding citizen to express his or her
view through public protest/procession and other legitimate means.
In order to ensure that public
protest/procession is not hijacked by hoodlums and miscreants to unleash mayhem
and disturbance of public peace, persons or group of persons undertaking
public protest/procession should endeavour to notify the police to enable the
police protect and process the public procession through designated routes and
destinations.
However, the Police will not condone
any protest/procession on the public highways and roads inhibiting or
disallowing public freedom and right of way.
The
Inspector General of Police is committed to the principles of democratic
policing and adherence to international best practices in public order management.
To this end, State Commissioners of Police and Police Commanders are directed
to emplace strategies to protect and facilitate lawful public
protest/processions as well as protect other members of the public who are not
engaged in any form of public protest/procession.
DCP Don N. Awunah, fsi
Force Public Relations Officer,
Force Headquarters,
Abuja.
Tags
Society