In a briefing with reporters in Abuja, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba, affirmed that the May 29 inauguration of former Lagos State Governor, Bola Tinubu, as the President of Nigeria, is an unalterable event. He emphasized that the swearing-in ceremony for the President-elect and other national and state leaders is sacrosanct.
The IGP vowed to work alongside other security operatives to safeguard democracy and issued a stern warning to political actors attempting to disrupt or frustrate the inauguration of newly elected leaders.
The IGP stressed that it is expected for true democrats to prioritize the nation’s security and democratic interests over personal political ambitions.
He expressed concern over the public utterances of certain political actors and their efforts to incite protests, which could create national tension ahead of the Presidential Swearing-in ceremony. He labeled these actions as subversive, undemocratic, and unconstitutional.
In light of these developments, the Nigeria Police issued three key warnings. Firstly, political actors with subversive agendas and their collaborators, including their foot soldiers, were cautioned to abandon their ongoing plans to create tension during the national space and derail the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony.
Secondly, individuals engaging in acts that undermine the nation’s democratic and security interests, regardless of their political affiliations, were put on notice.
The Nigeria Police, under the IGP’s leadership, expressed its determination to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies and the intelligence community to defend democracy, maintain internal security, and ensure the successful conduct of the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony.
Lastly the Nigeria Police emphasized the critical constitutional requirement of Inauguration Ceremonies at both national and state levels, highlighting their responsibility to protect the democratic heritage of the nation and closely oversee the constitutional processes.
The IGP assured citizens of the Nigeria Police’s unwavering loyalty to the democratic and political order, emphasizing their commitment to defending democracy at all costs.
This statement comes as a response to the growing concerns surrounding potential disruptions or attempts to undermine the peaceful transition of power in Nigeria.
As the May 29 inauguration approaches, the focus will be on ensuring a smooth and secure event. The warnings issued by the IGP serve as a reminder that any actions contrary to the nation’s democratic and security interests will not be tolerated.
The Nigeria Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, will remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the democratic process and upholding the constitutional requirements of the nation’s political order.