Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has instructed police forces nationwide to “deal decisively” with any acts of arson or disorder during the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protests, scheduled to begin on Thursday, August 1, 2024.
The protests, organized by youths under the banner of the “Take It Back Movement,” are aimed at addressing widespread hunger and economic hardship across Nigeria.
In a statement issued on the eve of the protests, Egbetokun criticized the organizers for failing to provide necessary details about the demonstrations, such as the names of participants and planned routes. He expressed concerns that the movement’s name carries “undemocratic, unconstitutional, and illegal connotations” and suggested that the protests might be intended to create chaos and harm innocent citizens.
Egbetokun emphasized that the police are prepared to prevent any deterioration of the situation and protect public safety. He directed all police formations to be on high alert and to take decisive action against any acts of violence, intimidation, or criminality that might arise during the protests. Offenders will be arrested and prosecuted, he warned.
The planned protests, which have gained significant traction on social media, will take place across all states and the capital, Abuja, throughout August. The demonstrations are a response to soaring food prices and a severe economic crisis exacerbated by the government’s recent policies, including the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange windows.
Authorities, including the police, military, and the Department of State Services, have cautioned against unrest similar to the 2020 EndSARS protests. Despite appeals from politicians and security concerns, the youth organizers remain committed to proceeding with the demonstrations.