The Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, criticized the escalating violence associated with the ongoing EndBadGovernance protests.
Protesters across various states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja began a planned 10-day demonstration against national hardships.
However, the first day saw significant violence and looting in several major cities, with reports of multiple fatalities.
The most severe unrest occurred in Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT Abuja, Niger, Jigawa, and Nasarawa States, some of which have already implemented curfews to manage the situation.
At a press conference, Egbetokun expressed frustration with the protest organizers, who he claimed were absent while violence erupted. He noted that the police’s initial warnings about potential violence were validated by the unfolding events.
Egbetokun recounted that the police had warned against the protests based on intelligence suggesting that some groups were planning violent actions. Despite advising organizers to limit the protests to controlled areas to facilitate security and prevent violence, many ignored these recommendations.
The Inspector General highlighted that the intended peaceful protests had devolved into widespread unrest and property destruction. He reported significant damage to police stations, government buildings, and businesses, particularly in the states mentioned.
Egbetokun condemned the failure of some protesters to comply with court orders, such as those directing demonstrations to designated areas like the National Stadium in Abuja. He also reported attacks on security personnel, including the murder of a policeman and injuries to others.
Amid these developments, Egbetokun stressed the importance of heeding security warnings and assured that the police and other security agencies are on high alert. He called for calm and cooperation from citizens to help restore order and safety.
