The Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, says the police did not ban protests in the country.
He stated that protesters must however notify the police ahead of their demonstration, stressing that they must follow designated routes and destination.
This, he said was necessary to prevent the procession from being hijacked by miscreants.
Idris’ denial followed the criticisms that trailed his statement that the protests by the ‘BringBackOurGirls’ coalition in Abuja constituted a security threat.
The IG in a statement on Saturday, said the Nigeria Police Force recognised the constitutional rights of every law abiding citizen to express his or her view through public protest/procession and other legitimate means.
He said, ” Peaceful Public protest/procession is an integral part of democratic norms in as much as it conforms with the rule of law and public order.
“In order to ensure that public protest/procession is not hijacked by hoodlums and miscreants to unleash mayhem and disturbance of public peace, persons or group of persons undertaking public protest/procession should endeavour to notify the police to enable the police protect them through designated routes and destinations.”
The IG warned that the police would not condone any protest or procession on the public highways and roads inhibiting or disallowing public freedom and right of way.
Idris said he is committed to the principles of democratic policing and adherence to international best practices in public order management.
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