Lagos: We’ll enforce Court order confining protesters – Police

As nationwide protests are set to commence on Thursday, August 1, the Lagos State Police Command has pledged to ensure peace and order throughout the state. SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the command’s spokesperson, issued a statement on Wednesday detailing the measures being taken to safeguard residents and maintain public order.

According to the statement, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade, has assured that the command is prepared to manage the potential impact of the protests on commercial activities and traffic flow. The statement emphasized the command’s commitment to upholding residents’ fundamental rights, including freedom of movement and dignity.

“The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade, mni, has assured Lagosians that the Command has emplaced necessary measures to ensure the safety of lives and property, free flow of traffic, and a peaceful environment for carrying out their respective lawful duties,” the statement read.

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The police have also highlighted a recent court order restricting protests to designated locations. The Lagos State High Court, on Tuesday, issued an injunction confining public demonstrations to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park on Ikorodu Road, Ojota, and Peace Park in Ketu from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. between August 1 and August 10, 2024.

In response, the police have vowed to enforce this order and provide maximum security at these designated areas. They urged protesters to adhere to the security arrangements to prevent any breakdown of law and order and to avoid potential hijacking of the protests.

The police also called on residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station. CP Fayoade reassured Lagosians that they could go about their lawful duties without fear of harassment or intimidation.

The court’s restriction aims to balance the right to peaceful protest with the need to maintain public order and safety amid ongoing economic and social challenges.

The Lagos State Police Command’s proactive stance is intended to manage the impact of the nationwide protests while ensuring that public demonstrations remain peaceful and within the legal framework.