The Nigeria Police Force has formally called on the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement to shelve its planned nationwide protest scheduled for Monday, April 7, 2025. According to a statement released by police spokesperson, CSP Muyiwa Adejobi, the protest was described as “ill-timed” as it coincides with the National Police Day celebration.
The Take-It-Back Movement had announced its intention to stage nationwide protests across various states of the federation, citing growing national concerns such as insecurity, economic hardship, and perceived government inaction. However, the Nigeria police argue that April 7, newly designated as National Police Day, is a time to celebrate the commitment and sacrifices of officers who maintain law and order across the country—not a day for unrest.
The Nigeria Police noted that the timing of the protest was “questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole.”
National Police Day: A Day of Reflection and Honor
April 7, 2025, marks the first official National Police Day in Nigeria—a government initiative to honor the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force to national security. According to the NPF, the celebration will bring together dignitaries from within and outside the country, including foreign Inspector-Generals of Police, diplomats, and top government officials.
The statement emphasized that the day is in line with international practices, as many nations set aside a specific day to celebrate their police institutions. “The Nigerian Government has taken the bull by the horn by declaring every April 7 as National Police Day,” the statement read.
Events are expected to include parades, award ceremonies, and special recognitions for gallant officers, as well as a showcase of achievements and reforms made by the Nigeria Police Force in recent years. The Nigeria Police argued that holding a protest on the same day could jeopardize the essence of the celebrations and potentially escalate tensions.
Nigeria Police Not Against Peaceful Protests, But Call for Dialogue
While reaffirming citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, the Nigeria Police urged the Take-It-Back Movement and its supporters to pursue dialogue instead of confrontation. According to the Force, open engagement with relevant government institutions remains the most constructive avenue for addressing public grievances.
“The Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM… urges all the organizers of the planned protest… to pursue dialogue by engaging the proper institution of government to press home their demands,” the statement said.
The Nigeria Police reiterated its commitment to upholding democratic values and fundamental human rights. However, it warned that the security implications of staging mass protests on a significant national occasion could not be ignored.
Security Concerns and Nigeria Police I Global Image at Stake
In its statement, the NPF expressed concern over the potential security risks that could arise from the protest, especially given the high-profile nature of the Police Day celebrations. The Force said the event would attract significant international attention and any disruption could negatively affect Nigeria’s global image.
“This glamorous event would bring together dignitaries from all spheres of life… The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is… capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole,” the Police warned.
The authorities stressed that their position was not intended to suppress freedom of expression but to prevent a situation where security operatives would be distracted from their duties during a sensitive national celebration.
TIB Movement Yet to Respond Officially
As of press time, the Take-It-Back Movement is yet to issue an official response to the Nigeria Police statement. The group, led by activists critical of government policy, had earlier declared that the protest would focus on the declining standard of living, rising insecurity, and alleged human rights violations.
It remains unclear whether the movement will heed the police’s warning or go ahead with its plans. However, the statement by the NPF appears to be a strong signal that any attempt to stage protests on April 7 could be met with resistance or preventive measures.
Observers note that the coming days will be crucial in determining whether tensions escalate or dialogue prevails between civil society groups and the security agencies.
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