- Coinciding with National Police Day: The protest is scheduled for April 7, 2025, which is also National Police Day, a day to celebrate the resilience and dedication of police officers.
- Questionable Motives: The NPF questions the motives behind holding a protest on the same day as National Police Day, suggesting it’s a deliberate attempt to malign the police force’s image.
- Potential Disruption: The police force warns that staging a protest on National Police Day could undermine the event’s significance and tarnish the reputation of the police force and the country.
- Excessive Force Concerns: This isn’t the first time the Nigerian police have faced criticism for their handling of protests. In August, Amnesty International reported that the police used excessive force against #Endbadgovernance protesters, resulting in at least 24 deaths.
- Call for Dialogue: The NPF encourages protest organizers to pursue dialogue with government institutions to address their concerns, emphasizing the importance of peaceful engagement and cooperation.
- Respect for Citizens’ Rights: The NPF acknowledges citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly and association.
- Commitment to Mandate: The NPF reaffirms its commitment to carrying out its mandate in accordance with the law while respecting citizens’ rights.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has called on the “Take It Back Movement” to cancel their planned nationwide protest scheduled for Monday, April 7, 2025. The NPF describes the timing of the demonstration as “ill-conceived and mischievous” since it coincides with the Federal Government’s declaration of April 7 as National Police Day.
Concerns Raised by the NPF
- Questionable Motives: The NPF questions the motives behind holding a protest on the same day as National Police Day, suggesting it’s a deliberate attempt to malign the police force’s image.
- Potential Disruption: The police force warns that staging a protest on National Police Day could undermine the event’s significance and tarnish the reputation of the police force and the country.
- Excessive Force Concerns: This isn’t the first time the Nigerian police have faced criticism for their handling of protests. In August, Amnesty International reported that the police used excessive force against #Endbadgovernance protesters, resulting in at least 24 deaths .
NPF’s Stance
- Respect for Citizens’ Rights: The NPF acknowledges citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly and association.
- Dialogue Over Disruption: The force encourages protest organizers to pursue dialogue with government institutions to address their concerns, emphasizing the importance of peaceful engagement and cooperation.
- Commitment to Mandate: The NPF reaffirms its commitment to carrying out its mandate in accordance with the law while respecting citizens’ rights.
Call to Action
The NPF urges the organizers of the protest to reconsider their plans, describing the protest as “ill-timed and mischievous.”
