The Nigeria Police Force says the planned protest scheduled to hold on Monday, April 7, 2025, across various states of the Federation, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is ill-timed and mischievous.
According to the NPF, the chosen date is a day earmarked by the Federal Government as the National Police Day, to celebrate the resilience and dedication of officers and men of the Force.
In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Sunday, described the move as unpatriotic and capable of rubbishing the image of Nigeria and the Force.
“While not against the exercise of citizens right to peaceful assembly and association in Nigeria as enshrined in the Constitution, the Nigeria Police Force is deeply concerned about the motive behind such protest scheduled on the same day the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force to national security is to be celebrated, putting into consideration that such glamorous event would bring together dignitaries from all spheres of life both internationally and within the country, including Foreign Inspectors-General of Police and Diplomats.
“In line with best global practices adopted by nations in celebrating the achievements of its Police institution, the Nigerian Government has taken the bull by the horn by declaring every April 7 as National Police Day.
“The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is however questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole.
“The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organizers to shelve this planned protest as it is ill-timed and mischievous”, the statement read in part.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to adequately carrying out its mandate in accordance with the Law and respect for rights of citizens under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
It urged all the organisers of the planned protest, one of which it identified as “Take it Back Movement”, as well as individuals who intend to join the protest to pursue dialogue by engaging the proper institution of government to press home their demands.
