The Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong caution to the “Take It Back Movement” over its planned nationwide protest scheduled to hold on Monda.

The protest is expected to take place across various states, with a major concentration in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, , the police expressed deep concern over the timing of the protest. April 7 is recognized by the Federal Government as National Police Day—a day set aside to honor the dedication and service of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force.

The Force said the scheduled protest, planned for the same day as the Police Day celebration, is viewed as a potential disruption to a significant national event.

The celebration is expected to attract dignitaries from within and outside the country, including Foreign Inspectors-General of Police and top diplomats.

While emphasizing that the Force is not against the citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly and association, it stressed that the timing of the protest casts doubts on the motive behind the demonstration. The Police described it as a “deliberate and unpatriotic act” that could tarnish the image of the Force and the nation.

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The statement noted that in line with international best practices, countries celebrate their Police institutions as a way of acknowledging their role in maintaining internal security.

Nigeria, in this light, has declared every April 7 as National Police Day, and any protest on the same day could be seen as undermining the spirit of the occasion.

Organizers of the protest have been advised to reconsider and suspend the planned action in the interest of peace and national unity. The Force described the protest as “ill-timed and mischievous,” urging the movement to explore dialogue as a more constructive channel for expressing their concerns.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to upholding its constitutional responsibilities while respecting the rights of Nigerian citizens. He encouraged organizers and potential protesters to engage the appropriate government institutions to push for their demands.

The Police also preached patriotism and national solidarity, especially on a day meant to reflect on the sacrifices of those who risk their lives daily to protect lives and property.

Crediblenewsng.com