The Nigeria Police Force has refuted claims that Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has imposed a 4 PM curfew for the planned nationwide protest on August 1. The police clarified that no curfew has been announced, labeling reports suggesting otherwise as “mischievous and false.”
In a statement released by Police spokesman, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Monday night, he emphasized that the misinformation circulating in some media outlets, particularly on Dockaysworld, is entirely fabricated.
“Following the recent misinformation regarding the imposition of a curfew ahead of the planned nationwide protest, it has come to our attention that some news outlets have reported that the Inspector General of Police has imposed a strict curfew starting at 4 PM for all protests. This information is entirely false and mischievous,” Adejobi stated.
He further clarified that any such information, if true, would be communicated through the official Nigeria Police Force platforms. The police urged the public and media to disregard the false reports and rely solely on official statements from authorized government agencies.
The IGP also addressed the potential impact of violent protests, underscoring the importance of maintaining peace and order. He highlighted the severe negative effects of destructive demonstrations on society.
In a weekend address, IGP Egbetokun noted, “It is not only in Nigeria that there is hardship. It is a global meltdown. Is the government doing anything about it? Yes! This is what a responsive government will do.” He assured that the government is actively working to mitigate the economic challenges and provide relief to citizens.
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Reflecting on the 2020 EndSARS protest, the IGP recounted the chaos that ensued when criminals took advantage of the situation, resulting in the burning of police stations, looting of arms, and increased criminal activities. He urged citizens to remember the lessons from past violent protests and avoid repeating such destructive actions.
