The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has called on those organizing the upcoming nationwide protest to submit detailed information to their respective state police commissioners.

This request was made during a press conference held in Abuja on Friday. The protest, scheduled to start on August 1, is driven by youth groups addressing the escalating cost of living in Nigeria.

Egbetokun emphasized that providing specific details would assist the police in deploying the necessary personnel and resources to maintain public safety throughout the protest.

The required information includes the planned route and assembly point for the protest; the expected duration of the event; the names and contact details of the protest leaders and organizers; and strategies to prevent the protest from being disrupted by criminal elements, including measures to identify and isolate potential troublemakers.

The IGP also highlighted the importance of clearly designating protest routes and areas to prevent clashes with other events, establishing effective communication channels with protest leaders to swiftly address any emerging issues, and minimizing the risks of violence, property damage, or other criminal activities.

Egbetokun urged all participants to cooperate with law enforcement, adhere to legal requirements, and follow international best practices for peaceful assembly to ensure a safe and effective demonstration of their rights.

Additionally, Egbetokun mentioned that the police have received credible intelligence suggesting the involvement of foreign mercenaries in the protest. He cautioned that the timing of the protest might be problematic, given the current climate.

The federal and state governments, including President Bola Tinubu, have urged the youth to reconsider the protest.

Religious and traditional leaders have also advocated for the demonstration’s cancellation.

Both the military and the Department of State Services (DSS) have expressed concerns that the protest could be taken over by violent elements.