The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has warned against violent protests in Nigeria, citing the recent unrest in Kenya and the trauma caused by the #EndSARS protests in 2020. Egbetokun stated that the police will not allow violence under the guise of replicating the Kenyan protests, which led to reforms but also resulted in destruction and loss of life.
The police boss noted that some groups are mobilizing for protests under the theme #EndBadGovernance, but advised them to jettison the idea, emphasizing the need to protect properties and citizens. He added that background checks on organizers and sponsors revealed that many are not living in Nigeria and aim to instigate crisis.
Egbetokun recalled the devastating consequences of the #EndSARS protests, including destruction of public assets, loss of lives, and increased crime rates. He assured that measures are in place to prevent hoodlums from disguising themselves as protesters and warned that any attempts to foster terror and anarchy will be apprehended.
