Lagos Police Issue Public Warning Before October 1 Protest
Lagos State’s Police Commissioner, Olarenwaju Ishola, has issued a warning about the nationwide protest scheduled for October 1st, organized by various civil groups in response to the hardships Nigerians are facing.
At a town hall meeting with traditional and religious leaders, Commissioner Ishola warned against any attempts to disrupt or take over the protest, stressing that the police will not allow any breakdown of order. He assured that there will be a strong police presence to ensure safety and peace during the protest.
“We’re not stopping anyone from protesting—it’s your right. We will make sure no troublemakers hijack it,” he said. The commissioner also emphasized that while protests are allowed, they must not harm others or cause public disorder. Acts of violence will not be tolerated.
He mentioned that Independence Day should be a celebration and that security forces would ensure peaceful events. He added that protesters must stay within the boundaries set by law, particularly limiting the protests to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota, Lagos.
Dapo Amao, Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos, also supported the right to protest but stressed the need for it to remain peaceful and not cause disorder. He pledged cooperation with other security forces to protect lives and property and ensure normal business activities continue.
Similarly, Adedotun Keshinro, Lagos State’s Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), urged protesters to keep things peaceful, warning against allowing the protest to become violent. He reassured the public that security agencies would work together to maintain safety.
