Lagos police to enforce court restrictions on protest timing, venues

The Lagos State Police Command has assured residents of its commitment to maintaining peace and order in the state as nationwide protests are set to begin on Thursday, August 1.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday which stated that the command will not allow any person or group to infringe on the fundamental human rights of others, including the right to freedom of movement and dignity.

The statement read, “The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade, mni has assured Lagosians that the Command has emplaced necessary measures to ensure safety of lives and property, free flow of traffic and a peaceful environment for carrying out their respective lawful duties.

“This assurance has become imperative following news making the rounds about nationwide protests billed to start on Thursday, August 1, 2024, an action capable of grounding commercial activities and obstructing free flow of traffic.”

The command also emphasised its role in enforcing a court order restricting protests to designated areas.

It added “Also, the command is in receipt of an order from a court of competent jurisdiction restricting peaceful public protest, rallies, procession and meetings to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ikorodu Road, Ojota Lagos and Peace Park, Ketu, Lagos from 8 am to 6 pm on 1st – 10th August, 2024.

“The Nigeria Police Force, as a law enforcement agency, shall duly enforce this order.

“To this end, the command hereby assures everyone willing to join in the proposed protests that maximum security will be provided at the indicated locations.”

The police urged protesters to abide by the security arrangements to ensure zero breakdown of law and order and prevent hijack of the protests.

Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station as CP Fayoade has reassured peace-loving Lagosians to go about their lawful duties without fear of harassment or intimidation.

PUNCH Online reports that a Lagos State High Court, on Tuesday, restricted the proposed nationwide protest in Lagos to the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota and the Peace Park in Ketu.