The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has asked intending protesters to submit the names of their groups, leaders, addresses, venues and routes of protests to the commissioners of police in their respective states.
The IGP disclosed this on Friday while speaking to journalists, given the planned protest to end bad government scheduled for August.
The IGP who had previously spoken against the intended protest, noted that the request for the relevant details is in the interest of public safety and to prevent all forms of miscreants from hijacking the protest.
He said, “We acknowledge the constitutional right of Nigerian citizens to peaceful assembly and protest.
“However, in the interest of public safety and order, we urge all groups planning to protest to provide necessary details to the Commissioner of Police in the state where the protest is intended to take place.
“To facilitate a successful and incident-free protest, they should please provide the following information: state the proposed protest routes and assembly points; expected duration of the protest; and names and contact details of protest leaders and organisers.”
By submitting the details, the IGP noted that the police would establish clear communication channels with protest leaders to address any concerns or issues that may arise; and minimise the risk of violence, property damage, or other criminal activity.
“We encourage all protesters to cooperate with the police, obey the law, and adhere to global best practices for peaceful assembly to guarantee a safe and successful exercise of their rights,” he added