The Kwara State Police Command has warned those wishing to join the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest to comply with the recent court order restricting the protest to the Metropolitan Square, Asa Dam Road, Ilorin, the state capital.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, on behalf of the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Victor Olaiya, on Friday, the Command said the warning was necessary to prevent the protest from being hijacked by miscreants, as has happened in some other states.
“It is evident that the protests in states like Niger, Borno, Kano, and Yobe have been hijacked, resulting in the loss of lives and properties.
“Citizens wishing to exercise their franchise must comply with the recent court ruling in the state,” the police said.
The statement added that the General Post Office and other venues, apart from the one designated by the Court, were not appropriate places to hold any rally or protest.
“We urge all groups to follow the court ruling, which stipulates that protests must take place at the Metropolitan Square along Asa Dam Road. The Post Office is not an approved location for such gatherings,” it said.
It also urged the protest leaders to meet with the state Commissioner of Police to discuss security measures for the safety of participants in the protest.
“We also request that protest leaders meet with the Commissioner of Police to strategise on security measures and ensure the safety of all participants.
“Your cooperation is essential towards maintaining public order and safety in the state,” the police said in the statement.
It would be recalled that a Kwara State Magistrates Court ordered the restriction of organisers of the August 1-10 hunger protest in the state to the Metropolitan Square in Ilorin, the state capital.
Granting an ex parte order on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, the Chief Magistrate, Jibril Salihu, who presided over the court, agreed with the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ibrahim Sulyman, that such a protest could degenerate into violence if protesters are allowed to do as they wish.
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