Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Ayodele Sonubi, has assured that the Command is prepared to provide protection for peaceful and lawful protesters in the state. Sonubi made this announcement on Monday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ibadan, discussing preparations for the nationwide protest planned for August 1.
The meeting, organized by the Nigerian News Agency (NAN), included participation from religious leaders, traditional rulers, transport unions, the National Association of Nigerian Students, the Nigeria Labour Congress, and the Trade Union Congress, among others.
Sonubi emphasized the police’s recognition of citizens’ undeniable right to engage in peaceful protests. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining peace and avoiding violence during such demonstrations.
“The Police in Oyo State acknowledge the undebatable right of citizens to engage in peaceful protest, which must not turn violent,” Sonubi stated. He added that while the Command would ensure adequate protection for peaceful protesters, any shift towards violence would be met with appropriate action.
“When a protest turns violent, it becomes criminal, and the Police will need to deal with the situation accordingly. No law enforcement agency will allow criminality to prevail. The moment it turns violent, the law will respond appropriately,” Sonubi said.
