NPF Warns Against Nationwide Protest Slated for Police Day, Calls for Dialogue

NPF Warns Against Nationwide Protest Slated for Police Day, Calls for Dialogue

Abuja, Nigeria – April 7, 2025 — The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a strong caution to organizers of a proposed nationwide protest, urging them to reconsider the timing, which coincides with the official commemoration of National Police Day.

In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, and released to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), the police said it has become aware of plans by a group known as the "Take It Back Movement" to hold protests across various states, particularly within the Federal Capital Territory, on Monday, April 7, 2025.

The date, which has been declared National Police Day by the Federal Government, is intended to celebrate the dedication and resilience of officers of the Nigeria Police Force. The police expressed concern that staging a protest on such a significant day could undermine the essence of the national celebration.

“While the Nigeria Police Force recognizes and respects citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, we are deeply concerned about the motive behind organizing a protest on a day dedicated to honoring the contributions of the police to national security,” the statement read.

The NPF highlighted that the National Police Day event is expected to attract dignitaries from across the country and beyond, including foreign Inspectors-General of Police and diplomats. The Force suggested that the protest could be perceived as an attempt to disrupt or discredit the event, describing it as “ill-timed and mischievous.”

“In line with global best practices, the Nigerian Government has adopted April 7 as a day to appreciate the nation’s Police institution. Organizing a protest on the same day is questionable and could be viewed as an unpatriotic effort to tarnish the image of the Police and the nation,” the statement emphasized.

The Force urged the organizers to suspend the planned demonstration and instead explore dialogue through appropriate government channels to air their grievances.

Reaffirming its commitment to lawful conduct and the protection of citizens’ rights, the Police assured the public that it remains dedicated to its duty under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM.

The NPF concluded by appealing to all Nigerians to support efforts aimed at building a more secure and united country.