The Nigeria Police Force has advised organizers of a planned nationwide protest to shelve their plans, citing concerns over the timing. The protest, scheduled for Monday, April 7, 2025, coincides with National Police Day, a celebration honoring the resilience and dedication of NPF officers.
The NPF expressed concerns that holding the protest on National Police Day could tarnish the image of the force and the nation. The celebration is expected to bring together dignitaries from various spheres of life, including foreign inspectors-general of police and diplomats.
“We are deeply concerned about the motive behind such protest scheduled on the same day the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force to national security is to be celebrated,” said ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer. “The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act.”
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, urged protest organizers to engage in dialogue with the proper institutions of government to air their grievances. “We reaffirm our commitment to upholding citizens’ rights while carrying out our mandate,” he said.
The planned protest is reportedly organized by the “Take it Back Movement.” The NPF has asked the group to consider an alternative date for their protest, citing the potential impact on the National Police Day celebrations.
