The Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong warning to the organisers of a planned nationwide protest slated for Monday, April 7, 2025, urging them to suspend the demonstration, which coincides with the newly declared National Police Day, okaynews.com reports.
The protest, spearheaded by the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement, aims to highlight a range of national grievances. However, police authorities have described the timing as “ill-timed” and potentially “mischievous,” suggesting it could undermine the image of the police institution and the country at large.
In a statement released on Sunday, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, said the protest date appears to be a deliberate affront to the significance of April 7, which has now been officially designated as National Police Day by the federal government.
“In line with best global practices adopted by nations in celebrating the achievements of their police institutions, the Nigerian government has taken the bull by the horn by declaring every April 7 as National Police Day,” the statement reads.
“The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is, however, questionable and perceived to be a deliberate and unpatriotic act capable of maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole.”
The police called on the protest organisers to embrace dialogue rather than confrontation, reiterating the Force’s commitment to democratic principles and lawful engagement with civil society.
“The Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, while reaffirming its commitment to upholding the law and protecting citizens’ rights, urges all organisers and potential participants to explore institutional channels of communication to press home their demands,” the statement added.
While the TIB Movement has yet to issue a formal response, the police warning sets the stage for potential tension ahead of Monday’s planned demonstrations.
