Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has condemned the violent protests that erupted on Thursday, where demonstrators, expressing their frustration over economic hardships under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, engaged in looting, property destruction, and attempts to seize government buildings.
In a live broadcast addressing the unrest, Egbetokun announced that all police units across the nation have been placed on red alert to maintain public safety. He emphasized the importance of balancing the right to protest with the responsibilities of citizenship.
“We acknowledge the right of citizens to protest, but this right is not absolute. Citizens also have duties and responsibilities towards their nation, including being law-abiding and loyal. Understanding your rights is important, but it is equally crucial to fulfill your duties and responsibilities,” Egbetokun stated.
Egbetokun explained that the red bands worn by police signify a heightened state of alert. He addressed concerns about the service of court orders, noting the difficulties in reaching individuals who make threats anonymously on social media.
“The red bands we are wearing signify that our command is on high alert. Those claiming they were not served court orders must understand that serving faceless individuals is challenging. Their threats were made on social media, and they were served through the same platform,” he added.
