BY MIKE OSAROGIAGBON
As the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest is set to commence on Thursday, police in Edo State, Southern Nigeria have pledged to ensure the safety of peaceful demonstrators while issuing a stern warning against any form of violence.
The state Commissioner of Police CP Funsho Adegboye addressed journalists today in Benin, detailing the police’s preparedness to secure the protest and the conditions under which they will provide support.
He highlighted that the protest would be conducted in the form of an “occupation” at Ring Road, with no roadblocks, procession allowed to prevent disruptions to public and private activities.
“We all believe as we agreed that the protest will be in the form of occupied. The venue to occupy is ring road, no blocking of roads, law-abiding citizens who are not ready to take part in the protest will be allowed to go about their lawful businesses, so people should not be scared”, he said.
The police have committed to protecting and supporting peaceful protesters, even extending to the provision of refreshments if necessary. Adegboye emphasized that while citizens have the right to protest, it must be done in a manner that does not disturb others.
“On the part of the police, we are going to reciprocate once the protesters are peaceful we are going to protect them, support them, if possible we have agreed that even if it is pure water, sweet we’re going to provide.
“Meanwhile, it is the right of citizens to protest, however, it has to be peaceful so that you do not use your demonstration to disturb others”, CP Funsho Adegboye said.
He further stated that ambulances and first aid personnel will be present at the public park around ring road under the protection of the police and other security agencies.
“To ensure public safety, ambulances and first aid personnel will be stationed at a public park near Ring Road, safeguarded by police and other security agencies”, CP Funsho Adegboye noted.
The police commissioner also cautioned against spreading unfounded rumors, noting that a control room has been set up for protest organizers to disseminate accurate information.
Adegboye however warned that the police would take decisive action against any individuals or groups attempting to hijack the protest for violent purposes.
