The Kogi State Police Command says citizens have the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression, but insists such rights must be exercised within the law and without jeopardising public peace, safety, and security.
In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, Saliu Oyiza Afusat, said the Command has received credible intelligence about a planned protest in Lokoja scheduled for the 27th of this month.
The Command advised all individuals and groups intending to participate to report to the Police Headquarters in Lokoja for identification and necessary engagement.
According to the statement, organisers are expected to provide details of the protest, including proposed routes, duration, and nature of activities.
The Police say the measure is aimed at identifying genuine organisers and participants, preventing hijack by criminal elements, and enabling adequate security planning for a peaceful and orderly exercise.
The Command warned it will not tolerate any unlawful assembly or acts capable of degenerating into violence, including obstruction of public highways or breach of peace.
The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, urged stakeholders to cooperate with the Police and maintain peace, assuring residents of the Command’s commitment to the protection of lives and property.
He also encouraged members of the public to remain law-abiding and report suspicious activities to the nearest police formation.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
