In response to the planned “Take it Back Movement” protests set to commence on August 1, 2024, prominent human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, has provided the Nigerian Police with detailed information on the protest venues across major cities in Nigeria. This move follows a request from Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, who sought to ensure adequate security and coordination for the demonstrations.
Protest Locations Announced
Adegboruwa, representing the protest organizers, outlined several key venues for the demonstrations, which include:
- Eagles Square in Abuja
- Alausa Park by Secretariat in Lagos
- Rosewale Filling Station, Iwo Road in Ibadan
- Freedom Park in Oshogbo
- Opposite School of Agric in Bauchi
- Along Tafawa Balewa Road, opposite Wema Bank in Benin City
- Maiduguri Roundabout
- Opposite State Stadium in Damaturu, Yobe State
- Rainbow Roundabout and Pantani Stadium in Rivers State
These locations were shared with the IGP to facilitate the planning of security measures. The list is expected to expand as the movement progresses.
Call for Virtual Meeting
In his letter to the IGP, Adegboruwa also requested that the meeting between the protest organizers and the police be held virtually to allow for broader participation. He emphasized that the meeting should include other stakeholders, such as representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), additional lawyers, and civil society organizations. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, is proposed to lead the discussion.
Ensuring Peaceful Protests
The letter from Adegboruwa reiterated the commitment of the protest organizers to hold peaceful demonstrations, acknowledging the police’s role in providing security. He requested the contact details of the Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, and the Commissioners of Police assigned to cover the protests. This information is crucial for coordinating a crisis-free event.
Background and Context
The protests are being organized in response to the rising cost of living in Nigeria, which has put immense pressure on citizens. The “Take it Back Movement” aims to address these economic hardships and advocate for better living conditions.
The IGP’s willingness to engage with the organizers and provide security is seen as a positive step towards ensuring that the protests remain peaceful. The police have already invited Adegboruwa for a meeting to finalize the security arrangements.
As the protest date approaches, further details and updates are expected to be shared by both the organizers and the police, ensuring that all parties are prepared for the events.
