The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 7, AIG Benneth Igweh, has announced that no form of protest or procession will be permitted in Abuja. This declaration follows intelligence reports indicating that certain groups plan to conduct unauthorized protests in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
AIG Igweh stated, “October 1 is our Independence Day, and the federal government has declared a public holiday for all Nigerians to celebrate. We are prepared to protect you and ensure your safety during the celebrations as long as you operate within the law.”
He further noted that there is intelligence suggesting that some miscreants, including members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (Shiites), intend to take to the streets to protest. “This cannot be allowed because they have been proscribed. They do not have the right to assemble or process,” he emphasized.
Regarding reports that some groups have submitted applications for peaceful protests against hardship, AIG Igweh countered, “The Police Command in FCT has not received any letter or application for any protest march. Therefore, protesters should stay away from Abuja.”
When asked whether protests are still permissible under the constitution, he clarified, “Protests are allowed if they are within the law. However, if your protest does not adhere to legal requirements, we will inform you that the law exists, and it must be obeyed.”