Olu Samuel

The Kogi state police commissioner CP Nasir Bello Kankaroufi has asked those planning to protest on 27th April to report to the Command headquarters, Lokoja for proper identification and necessary engagement with the police.

This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the public relations officer ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat and made available to newsmen in Lokoja.

“The Kogi State Police Command has received credible intelligence regarding a planned protest scheduled to take place in Lokoja on the 27th of this month.

While the Command recognizes and respects the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and expression, it is imperative to state that such rights must be exercised within the confines of the law and in a manner that does not jeopardize public peace, safety, and security” she wrote.

According to her,”in view of the above, the Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, psc, mni, hereby advises all individuals and groups intending to participate in the planned protest to report to the Kogi State Police Command Headquarters, Lokoja, for proper identification and necessary engagement with the Police.

She said that the aim of the proposed meeting is to Identify the genuine organizers and participants; Prevent the protest from being hijacked by criminal elements or persons with ulterior motives as well as Enable adequate security planning to ensure a peaceful and orderly exercise.

“Furthermore, the organizers are required to furnish the Command with details of their intended plans, including the proposed route, duration, and nature of the protest. This will assist in deploying adequate security to protect lives, property, and the rights of all citizens.” She noted.

The Command said that any protest that degenerates into violence, unlawful assembly, obstruction of public highways, or any act capable of causing a breach of peace will not be tolerated, and such actions will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner of Police therefore urges all stakeholders to cooperate with the Police and maintain peace, assuring the general public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across the State.

Members of the public are also encouraged to remain law-abiding and report any suspicious activities to the nearest Police formation.