Nationwide Protest Planned for April 7 Amid Police Warnings

Nationwide Protest Planned for April 7: Police Warn Against “Ill-Timed” Demonstration

ABUJA — A nationwide protest, organized by the Take-It-Back (TIB) movement and other civil society groups, is scheduled to take place on April 7, 2025. The protest aims to address several pressing national issues, including the repeal of the Cybercrime Act, the end of emergency rule in Rivers State, and the high cost of living in Nigeria. However, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning against the protest, labeling it “ill-timed and mischievous” due to its coincidence with the National Police Day celebrations.

Protest Demands

1. Repeal of Cybercrime Act:
   • Protesters argue that the Cybercrime Act is being misused to suppress free speech and stifle dissenting voices in Nigeria.
2. End of Emergency Rule in Rivers State:
   • The TIB movement and other groups are demanding an end to the emergency rule in Rivers State, which they claim is an unconstitutional measure that undermines democratic governance.
3. High Cost of Living:
   • The protest also seeks to highlight the worsening economic conditions in Nigeria, including rising inflation and unemployment rates.

Police Warning

1. Concerns Over Timing:
   • The NPF expressed concerns about the timing of the protest, which coincides with the National Police Day celebrations. This event is expected to attract international dignitaries, including foreign Inspectors-General of Police and diplomats.
2. Call for Dialogue:
   • The police urged the organizers to reconsider their plans and engage in dialogue with relevant government institutions to address their grievances.

Organizers’ Response

1. Determination to Proceed:
   • Despite the police warning, the National Coordinator of the TIB movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, stated that the group is undeterred and prepared to challenge any repression by security agencies.
2. Public Frustration:
   • Sanyaolu noted that Nigerians are increasingly frustrated with the government, citing recent expressions of discontent on social media platforms.

Security Preparations

1. Red Alert Issued:
   • The Lagos State Police Command has placed its officers on high alert, warning that obstructing police officers during the protest is a criminal offense.
2. Strategic Deployments:
   • Police commands across the country have been advised to beef up security around critical infrastructure and strategic locations to prevent disruptions.

Amnesty International’s Stance

1. Call for Rights Protection:
   • Amnesty International has urged Nigerian authorities to uphold the rights of protesters, emphasizing the importance of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
2. Concerns Over Repression:
   • The organization warned against any attempts to suppress the protest, highlighting the need for security forces to respect human rights during demonstrations.

Reactions from Stakeholders

1. Northern Youth Council’s Stance:
   • The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria disowned the planned protest, urging against any actions that could lead to chaos.
2. Public Opinion:
   • Public opinion is divided, with some supporting the protest as a means to express grievances, while others view it as ill-timed and potentially disruptive.

Conclusion

The planned nationwide protest on April 7 highlights the growing tensions between civil society groups and the government over various national issues. As the police and organizers engage in a standoff, the focus remains on whether the protest will proceed and how it will impact the country’s political landscape.