Protect protesters: IGP issues directives to senior officers

The Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered protection for participants in the nationwide protest scheduled for August 1 to 10, on July 29, 2024.

The IGP’s order came in response to a request from Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and human rights activist.

The IGP’s instruction, detailed in a letter addressed to Adegboruwa and signed by his Principal Staff Officer, Johnson Adenola, outlined the directives.

The letter said :”I am to inform you that the Inspector General of Police has directed the Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (Operations and Intelligence)…

“The Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) in charge of Zonal Police Headquarters, and the Commissioners of Police (CPs) in charge of State Commands across the country to attend to your request”.

“I am also to inform you that the Inspector General of Police wishes to have a meeting with you at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Tuesday, 30 July 2024…

“To deliberate further on your request”.

The police, military, and Department of State Services have cautioned against a protest similar to the one in Kenya. 

Politicians, concerned that the planned rally might resemble the EndSARS demonstration of October 2020, are urging youths to abandon the planned protests. 

However, the young people remain resolute, steadfastly insisting that the protest will proceed as planned.

Youth response to IGP’s protection

The response of Nigerian youths to the IGP’s assurance to protect peaceful protesters has been mixed.

It reflects a combination of cautious optimism and skepticism.

This reaction stems from a historical context of distrust between the youth and law enforcement agencies in Nigeria.

As a result, past incidents where protests faced heavy-handed responses despite assurances of protection have exacerbated this distrust.

Positive reactions

Some youth and civil society groups have welcomed the IGP’s statements as a positive development.

They see it as an indication of a potential shift towards a more respectful and lawful handling of public demonstrations.

The commitment to protect peaceful protesters has been seen as a recognition of constitutional rights.

Thus, some youths have expressed hope that this might mark the beginning of a more responsible approach by the police towards civic activities.

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has taken proactive steps by organizing legal support for protesters.

He emphasized the importance of protecting the right to peaceful assembly.

Effiong’s actions reflect a broader effort among youth leaders and activists to hold the police accountable to their commitment.

Thus, they aim to promptly address any violations of rights.

He aims to safeguard the interests of demonstrators through his call for pro bono legal services and his communication with the IGP.

Skepticism and concerns

However, many youths remain skeptical about the sincerity and effectiveness of the IGP’s promise to protect them.

Past experiences, notably the violent crackdowns on the #EndSARS movement in 2020, root this skepticism.

Despite initial assurances of protection, these past events have left many wary.

The memory of the Lekki Toll Gate incident, where security forces allegedly shot at peaceful protesters, remains a poignant reminder of the dangers of public demonstrations.

Therefore, it highlights the need for increased protection for protesters.

Legal and Activist Strategies for Protection

In response to these concerns, several legal and human rights groups are preparing to monitor the protests closely.

Lawyers and activists are setting up support networks to provide immediate legal aid to any detained protesters.

This ensures that their rights are protected and that any potential abuses by law enforcement are documented and challenged.

This proactive stance underscores a readiness among the youth to assert their rights and hold authorities accountable .

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