The Rivers State Police Command has expressed deep concern over the escalating #EndBadGovernance protest, stating that unlawful acts such as extortion, destruction of vehicles, and harassment of business owners will no longer be tolerated. The Command has been closely monitoring the situation and has been providing adequate security, but the situation is becoming increasingly worrying.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, noted that the lack of clear leadership among protesters is leading to a breakdown of law and order. The protesters were earlier advised to conduct their demonstration peacefully within designated locations, while the police would provide adequate protection and isolate any criminal elements. However, the Command has pointed out a lack of identifiable leadership or coordination among the various groups, leading to a breakdown of order.
Sadly, the protesters have resorted to unlawful acts, such as burning tyres, extorting motorists, blocking roads, damaging vehicles, harassing business owners, and stealing from innocent residents. A group has also threatened that the pattern of the protest will change on August 7th, 2024, calling on traders and motorists to stay at home or join the protest.
While affirming the constitutional right to protest, the Command warned that it will act decisively to arrest and prosecute any individual who attempts to infringe on the rights of others or engage in criminal activities under the guise of the protest. The police will take necessary and decisive action immediately if the protest stops being peaceful.
The Command advised protesters to remain in the designated protest areas, Pleasure Park and Abali Park. They should refrain from disrupting the free movement of citizens or engaging in any unlawful activities. The police will not hesitate to take appropriate action against anyone who violates the law.
Notably, the Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of all residents during this period. The Command urged protesters to conduct themselves peacefully and avoid engaging in activities that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
It bears mentioning that the statement also emphasized that the police will continue to work with other security agencies to ensure that the protest does not degenerate into chaos. The Command appealed to parents and guardians to advise their children and wards to avoid engaging in any unlawful activities during the protest.
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In the end, the Rivers State Police Command warned that it would not tolerate any act of violence or criminality during the protest. The Command is committed to ensuring that the rights of all citizens are protected, and that the law is enforced to the letter.
It remains to be seen how things pan out from here on out.
