Nigeria Police Warns Against April 7 Protest, Urges Dialogue Instead
Police Caution Protesters Ahead of National Police Day
The Nigeria Police Force has warned against a planned nationwide protest by the Take-It-Back (TIB) movement. The protest is scheduled to take place on April 7, 2025 – the same day Nigeria celebrates National Police Day.
TIB Demands End to Cybercrime Act and Emergency Rule
TIB’s national coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the protest seeks to repeal the Cybercrime Act. The group also demands an end to the emergency rule in Rivers State, which they labeled as “military dictatorship under President Bola Tinubu.”
Police Describe Protest as Ill-Timed and Suspicious
Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi released a statement calling the protest “ill-timed and mischievous.” He questioned its motives, especially as it coincides with an event honoring the police’s contributions to national security.
The National Police Day will host dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria, including foreign police chiefs and diplomats.
NPF Urges Protesters to Embrace Dialogue
The police emphasized their support for peaceful assembly, as guaranteed in Nigeria’s Constitution. However, they encouraged TIB to explore dialogue rather than disrupt a national celebration.
Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun reaffirmed the police’s commitment to respecting citizens’ rights. He advised protesters to engage relevant government institutions to press their demands legally and peacefully.
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