Lagos State Commissioner of Police (CP) Hakeem Odumosu has described as mischievous reports that the command has given go-ahead for #ENDSARS memorial protests in the state.
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Reports on social media platforms quoted the police boss to have endorsed plans by youths to stage anniversary protest in memory of victims of the violence that preceded last October’s mass movement that sought an end to the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), police brutality, extortion, bad governance, among others.
Dismissing the report, Odumosu told newsmen that the position of the police banning all forms of protests was still in order, urging residents to disregard the falsehood.
He said: “It is false and mischievous. At no time did I say that #ENDSARS protests are allowed to hold. Our position against protests for the mow still stands. We will issue a statement on that soon.”
Last Monday, the Command kicked against any such protests, warning it would use all lawful means to prevent “misguided elements” from disrupting the peace and serenity currently being enjoyed in the state.
A statement by spokesman, CSP Adekunle Ajisebutu, said the command had credible intelligence on clandestine plans by some youths, individuals or groups to embark on protest in commemoration of one year anniversary of ENDSARS.
He said: “Lagosians and indeed Nigerians cannot afford to relive the distasteful experience of last year protest which caused pain, anguish, needless loss of lives and wanton destruction of public and private property.
“In view of the volatility of the present situations in the country, and the breakdown of law and order which the planned protest might cause, the Lagos State Police Command sternly warns against any form of protest today.
“The Command wishes to use this medium to warn the youths, groups, or associations planning such protest to jettison the idea forthwith. The police in the state will not fold their arms and allow some misguided elements disrupt the peace and serenity currently being enjoyed in the state.
“To forestall breakdown of law and order, the police will use all legitimate means within their constitutional powers to suppress the planned protest.
“Therefore, parents and guardians are advised to warn their children against participating in the planned protest. Individuals or groups sponsoring such protest are also warned in their own interest to desist from such unpatriotic plan or face the full weight or wrath of the law.”
Ajisebutu said the CP assured all law-abiding residents that adequate and additional security measures have been taken to protect them from harassment or intimidation, urging them to go about their legitimate duties.
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