The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Abayomi Peter Oladipo, has directed organizers of the August 1-10, 2024, protest in Ondo State to inform the state police command of the protest locations in advance.
This directive, signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, aligns with instructions from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, who stressed the importance of security arrangements for ensuring a peaceful demonstration.
Odunlami-Omisanya emphasized that while the police command recognizes the fundamental rights of citizens to protest and express their frustrations, it is crucial to avoid violent protests that infringe on the rights and freedoms of other citizens.
“In view of this, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abayomi Peter Oladipo, has directed that organizers of the protest within Ondo State must submit details of their activities to the command PPRO, including the venues of convergence, so that appropriate security arrangements can be made,” the statement read.
CP Abayomi urged both organizers and protesters to cooperate with the police to prevent criminal elements from hijacking the protest or using it to carry out unlawful acts. He assured that the command would provide adequate security for the protesters and the state at large.
The command also appealed to all participants to maintain the sanctity of public gatherings and lawful assemblies while avoiding actions that could lead to a breakdown of law and order in the state.
“Law-abiding residents and citizens transiting through Ondo State are assured of robust police protection and a peaceful, violence-free protest during this period,” the PPRO concluded.
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