EKOHOTBLOG reports that the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, has made a U-turn on its earlier warning against any gathering or organisation of protest in commemoration of the first anniversary of last year’s #EndSARS protest in the state.
The police commissioner, while addressing newsmen during the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) state congress in Lagos on Saturday, described protests as a right citizens are entitled to.
Odumosu added that the state police command would be ready to protect protesters.
It would be recalled that the Lagos State Police Command had earlier in a statement said, “The police in the state will not fold their arms and allow some misguided elements disrupt the peace and serenity currently being enjoyed in the state.
“To forestall breakdown of law and order, the police will use all legitimate means within their constitutional powers to suppress the planned protest…”
Meanwhile, Odumosu has made a U-turn, saying the police only want the organisers of such protests to work together and have a meeting point.
The police commissioner stated, “If you want to protest, it is your right under the law but you don’t have to block the road because, in the process of obstructing the road, you are no longer protesting for a better life for people.
READ ALSO: #EndSARS: Panic In Lagos As Lekki Rally Looms
“However, what happens to pregnant women in an emergency, what happens to collapsed buildings, fire incidents when the roads are blocked?
“Don’t forget that this is Lagos, it is the economy of the country and it is equally a working day and you can imagine those lives that earn their living on a daily basis.
“There are some people that cannot feed their families when protesters block the road definitely,” Odumosu said.
He, therefore, appealed to the #EndSARS protesters to give the police adequate information to ensure their protection and free flow of traffic.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Sanwoolu Working Hard To Stop ENDSARS Anniversary – Falz
Six men connected to Juventus and France midfielder Paul Pogba are set to stand trial…
Black Market USD to Naira Exchange Rate in Nigeria for today, Monday, 25th November 2024…
Head Coach Justine Madugu has announced a squad of 20 players for Saturday’s international friendly…