The Lagos State Police Command has issued a strong advisory to all officers and commanders under its jurisdiction, warning them of an upcoming nationwide protest set to take place on April 7, 2025. This protest is being organized by the Take-It-Back (TIB) movement, a civil society organization, along with several other allied groups. The protest, according to the organizers, is a response to what they describe as increasing authoritarianism in the country, particularly targeting two key issues: the misuse of the Cybercrime Act and the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, which they refer to as a “state of emergency.”
Juwon Sanyaolu, the National Coordinator of TIB, made a public statement outlining the group’s intentions. He emphasized that the protest aims to push for the repeal of the controversial Cybercrime Act, which activists argue has been used to suppress freedom of expression and silence dissent. Additionally, the movement demands an end to what it views as undemocratic governance in Rivers State, calling for the restoration of legitimate governmental functions that have been suspended, including the State House of Assembly and executive powers. Sanyaolu accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of imposing a military-like rule in the region, describing it as a form of dictatorship that undermines Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
In reaction to these plans, the Lagos Police Command, through a circular signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Tijani O. Fatai, expressed concerns about the broader implications of the protest. The Command claimed to have gathered intelligence suggesting that several groups masquerading as civil society organizations were plotting to exploit the protest to sow unrest across the nation. The circular alleged that these groups were using social media to spread messages designed to erode public confidence in the government, draw sympathy for their cause, and stir up civil disobedience.
The police expressed particular concern that such demonstrations could serve as a cover for criminal elements to wreak havoc. They warned that violent actors might take advantage of the situation to launch attacks on government buildings, disrupt economic activities, and target political figures. In response, the Commissioner of Police has instructed that security be intensified across the state, particularly around key infrastructure and sensitive locations, to preempt any potential chaos.
The operation order issued by the Police Command is comprehensive, outlining detailed objectives aimed at maintaining law and order during the protest. Among the stated goals are ensuring that the demonstration remains peaceful and does not devolve into violence, preventing criminal infiltration, and guaranteeing that all citizens can continue their daily activities without fear. The police also aim to maintain steady traffic flow and safeguard lives and property before, during, and after the protest.
A long list of potential protest convergence points in Lagos was identified as areas requiring heightened security presence. These include Gani Fawehinmi Park, National Stadium, Labour House in Yaba, Ikorodu Roundabout, Ikeja Underbridge, Obalende Underbridge, Iyana-Iba, and several other high-traffic and strategic locations such as major roads, markets, malls, parks, and transportation terminals.
Furthermore, critical installations have been earmarked for enhanced protection. These include INEC offices, media houses, police stations, court buildings, hospitals, major markets, the Lagos State Government Secretariat, the National Theatre, food warehouses, and mass transit infrastructure like train stations and ferry terminals.
To ensure the success of this operation, the police plan to deploy a wide range of resources and personnel from various departments and units. These include the Department of Operations in Ikeja, the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department (SCIID) in Yaba, Area Command Headquarters, the Rapid Response Squad in Alausa, and the Lagos Task Force in Oshodi. Additional manpower will be drawn from multiple Police Mobile Force (PMF) units, the Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Units, and the Anti-Bomb Disposal Squad.
The police reiterated their commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and emphasized that those not involved in the protests should feel safe to go about their normal activities. Ultimately, the Command’s approach reflects a broader strategy to strike a balance between the constitutional right to protest and the need to preserve public safety and order throughout the state.
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